President Arthur Peter Mutharika and First Lady Gertrude Mutharika have expressed deep sorrow following the death of Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) Director General Brian Banda.
In a condolence message issued through State House, President Mutharika described Banda as “a patriot, a distinguished media icon” and a dedicated public servant whose voice and vision had resonated with Malawians for decades.
“The First Lady and I are deeply saddened to learn of the sudden passing of Mr. Brian Banda,” Mutharika said.
Banda, who was appointed Director General of MBC in March 2026, died at Mwaiwathu Private Hospital in Blantyre after a short illness, according to reports from Malawian media. Details surrounding the illness have not yet been publicly disclosed.
A prominent voice in Malawian broadcasting
Banda was widely recognised as one of Malawi’s prominent broadcasters. Before taking over at MBC, he worked with the Times Group, where he established a reputation as a broadcaster known for interviewing public officials and engaging prominent figures on national issues.
His appointment as MBC Director General took effect on 16 March 2026, with the MBC Board saying he would assume responsibility for the corporation’s management and strategic direction.
The appointment placed Banda at the head of Malawi’s national public broadcaster at a significant moment for the country’s media industry.
Just months into his tenure, he was still actively involved in the running of the corporation. In June, he challenged MBC employees to improve discipline and punctuality during an unannounced inspection of the corporation’s Area 4 studios in Lilongwe.
Mutharika: “A dedicated public servant”
In his message of condolence, President Mutharika said Banda’s contribution went beyond his position at MBC.
He described the late broadcaster as a “patriot”, “distinguished media icon” and “dedicated public servant”, saying his voice and vision had reached homes across Malawi for decades.
The President extended his condolences to Banda’s family, friends and the wider media fraternity.
“Our hearts go out to his family, friends, and the entire media fraternity during this incredibly difficult time,” Mutharika said.
He concluded the message by saying: “May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
Sudden death shocks media fraternity
Banda’s death has sent shockwaves through Malawi’s media community, with colleagues, journalists and public figures expressing disbelief at the sudden loss.
Malawi24 reported that Banda’s death came as a particular shock because he had only recently taken up the MBC leadership position and appeared to be entering another important phase of his broadcasting career.
Banda’s death also comes only months after President Mutharika met him at Sanjika Palace in May, where the two discussed government priorities and the role of the national broadcaster. Mutharika also commended MBC’s leadership during that engagement.
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