LIES IN POLITICS

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The politics of lies, also known as disinformation or misinformation, can have numerous detrimental effects on individuals, societies, and democratic systems. Looking at what we have gone through, I can surely agree with the electorate that we were told lies: they wanted us to put them into power. I would like to, therefore, share you some of the evils which associated with the lies from politicians. 


First of all, they have undermined truth and trust: The foundation of any healthy society and political system is truth and trust. When politicians and leaders deliberately spread lies or misinformation, it erodes public trust in institutions and the media, making it difficult for people to discern fact from fiction. More than quarters of the Malawian voters are disappointed with this state affairs of the country. Take or leave, Malawians will seek a change come 2025 general elections. 


The second thing polarization and division: The politics of lies often involves spreading false narratives and conspiracy theories that exploit people's fears and prejudices. This can lead to increased polarization within society, dividing people into opposing camps and hindering constructive dialogue and compromise.


Thirdly, manipulation of public opinion: False information can be used to manipulate public opinion, sway elections, and gain support for questionable policies. This undermines the democratic process by influencing voters based on falsehoods rather than informed decisions.


The other one deterioration of civil discourse: When political debates are fueled by lies and misinformation, it becomes challenging to have productive and respectful discussions. This can lead to hostility, animosity, and the abandonment of reasoned discourse in favor of emotional reactions.


Another evil associating lies is suppression of dissent: Leaders who engage in the politics of lies may use disinformation to discredit and silence critics, journalists, or opposition figures, thereby stifling dissent and limiting freedom of speech. Today, we are shocked to hear some people in the country are being persecuted and to an extent of dismissed from work; for saying or writing about a leader.


Politics of lies also initiates misallocation of resources: False information can lead to poor decision-making, resulting in the misallocation of resources and funds. Recently, we have witnessed a multimillion project swimming pool kung'ambika before it becomes operational. This is a lie. When policies are based on lies rather than evidence, it can harm the economy and negatively impact public welfare.


The politics of lies weakens democratic institutions: Democracies rely on informed citizens making rational choices at the ballot box. The politics of lies can weaken democratic institutions by fostering an environment of confusion and disillusionment among voters. Think of Hi5 from MCP leader, free laptops and internet from UDF former Atupele Muluzi,  The UTM leader Dr. Saulos Klaus Chilima's "Tsogolo Lowala Lafika", DPP's recent battles and fights and so on and so forth. 


It also lead to international implications: False information and disinformation campaigns can also affect international relations and geopolitics. They can lead to tensions between nations, misunderstanding, and potential escalation of conflicts. 


Last but one, health and safety risks: In cases where lies or misinformation are spread about public health issues or safety concerns, people's lives can be put at risk. This was particularly evident during the COVID-19 pandemic, where false information about the virus and potential treatments led to real-world consequences. There has been a lot whether people were dying of the virus or something. Malawians don't even know the truth about Astrazeneca and Johnson vaccines. 


Finally, politics of lies causes erosion of accountability: Politicians who engage in the politics of lies may avoid accountability for their actions by distorting the truth or shifting blame onto others. This weakens the integrity of the political system and impedes efforts to hold leaders responsible for their decisions. Up-to-date we do not know who is behind Butchery Fertiliser case. 


Addressing the politics of lies requires a collective effort from individuals like Washington Mwenye, Onjezani Kenani, Joshua Chisa Mbele, Bashir Al Bashir, Richards Nantchengwa, media houses like Zodiak Online and MIJ, tech companies, and governments. Promoting critical thinking, media literacy, and fact-checking can help citizens better discern reliable information from falsehoods. Additionally, holding politicians accountable for spreading lies and disinformation is crucial to safeguarding the integrity of political discourse and democratic institutions.

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