Commissioner Nancy Tembo expressed the concern in Lilongwe on Saturday during the official opening of a daylong media workshop in preparation of by elections for the local government.

The by-elections are slated for 5 August 2015 in five wards namely, Khwawa in Karonga, Chibanja in Mzuzu, Msikisi in Mangochi, Luchenza ward in Lunchenza and Zomba Central Ward in Zomba.

Commissioner Tembo said it has been trend that people shun by-elections.

She said media was crucial in encouraging masses to vote. "We rely on the media to stage robust civic and voter education campaign", narrated Tembo.

Tembo also pressed on scribes to enlighten the electorate to choose candidates who are developmental conscious for the development of the country.

Deputy Director General for Malawi Communications Authority-MACRA Francis Bisika urged electronic media houses to install broadcasting delaying machines to avoid unpalatable content go out on air during phone in programmes.

Bisika said that MACRA will take appropriate action at any media house seen to be airing hatred speeches and accommodating unpalatable words on air.

The reporters taken through the training were drawn mainly from districts where the by-elections will be conducted.

According to MEC officials all the wards are undergoing the by-elections following the passing of councilors.