JUMA Gives Media Houses 90 Days to Settle Pension Arrears: “An injury to one is an injury to all”

The Journalists Union of Malawi (JUMA) has issued a 90-day ultimatum to all media houses to comply with the Pensions Act of 2023 or face legal action.

In a joint statement, JUMA President Emmanuel Chibwana and Secretary General Nathan Majawa said some media organizations have failed to remit pension contributions or have accumulated arrears, putting journalists’ social security at risk.

“The Pensions Act clearly mandates employers to remit monthly pension contributions. Failure to comply violates the law and threatens the welfare of media practitioners,” the statement read.

It further reads: “We are granting a 90-day period, from 3 February to 2 May 2026, for all non-compliant media houses to settle arrears and ensure future contributions are remitted on time. Failure to comply will compel JUMA to pursue legal remedies without further notice.”

The Union said the 90-day window includes weekends and public holidays.

Media houses are encouraged to engage with JUMA during this period to avoid penalties.

“An injury to one is an injury to all,” the statement added, reaffirming JUMA’s commitment to protecting journalists’ rights and enforcing labour laws in the media sector.