State President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika has led government leaders and the nation in mourning the death of Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) Director General, Brian Banda, describing him as a patriot and distinguished media icon whose legacy will endure for generations.
Banda died on Saturday at Mwaiwathu Private Hospital in Blantyre after a short illness.
In a personal message of condolence, President Mutharika and First Lady Professor Getrude Mutharika expressed deep grief over the sudden loss of the media titan, who was born in 1981.
“Mr. Banda was a patriot, a distinguished media icon, a dedicated public servant whose voice and vision resonated in homes across Malawi for decades. Our hearts go out to his family, friends, and the entire media fraternity during this incredibly difficult time,” stated President Mutharika.
Joining in the mourning, Vice President Dr. Jane Mayemu Ansah SC, JA (Rtd), extended her heartfelt sympathies to the grieving family and the media community on behalf of the presidency.
“Mr. Banda’s contribution to the media fraternity and to the development of broadcasting in Malawi will be remembered and valued,” stated Vice President Ansah.
Minister of Information Shadrec Namalomba also paid a emotional personal tribute, highlighting Banda’s role in building the nation’s democratic landscape through his hard-hitting journalism and why President Mutharika placed his trust in him to lead the state broadcaster.
“This is truly heartbreaking. Brian Banda was a giant in journalism. Fearless, sharp, and never afraid to ask the tough questions that kept his guests honest. He didn’t just report on democracy; he helped build it.
“That is exactly why His Excellency, the State President, Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika trusted him to restore public faith in MBC—a task he took on with integrity and passion. But beyond the accolades, I’ve lost a friend and will deeply miss him. Rest well, Brian. You fought a good fight,” Namalomba said.
According to the official funeral program, the body of the late Director General will be moved from Mthunzi Mortuary tomorrow at 11:00 AM. A church service will be conducted at Word of Faith Church in Chilobwe, Blantyre, ahead of the burial on Monday in Chileka.
