MONROVIA, LIBERIA-President Joseph Boakai has reiterated his administration’s pledge to a free, responsible, professional, and vibrant media in Liberia.
President Boakai also underscored the importance of the media in protecting democracy and advancing national development.
He made the commitment over the weekend in Congo Town at the 2nd Annual Presidential Media Dinner.
The President expressed profound appreciation to journalists for their courage, sacrifices, and dedication to nation-building.
He also encouraged the press to continue reporting critical national issues by holding government and public officials accountable.
President Boakai then extended deepest condolences to the Management and Staff of the Liberia Broadcasting System (LBS) on the passing of veteran journalist, Charles Johnson.
Veteran broadcaster and radio commentator, Charles Johnson, who died in August following a brief illness, worked at LBS for many years.
President Boakai recounted the late journalist’s contributions toward the profession and the State Broadcaster, adding that his sudden demise has created a void in the media space, urging others to emulate his good example.
President Joseph Boakai also expressed condolences to the bereaved families and prayed that God Almighty will console them during this difficult period.
Also speaking, Information Minister Jerolinmek Piah called on Liberian journalists and media institutions to uphold ethical standards and avoid publishing or broadcasting unverified information.
Minister Piah warned that the spread of false or unverified information could create fear, damage reputations, cause public confusion, and undermine public trust in the media.
He noted that information can spread rapidly by radio, Facebook, WhatsApp, and other communication platforms, reaching thousands of people within a short period, urging journalists to verify information before publication.
Minister Piah then assured that the government will continue to support and protect a free press that informs the public, investigates issues responsibly, and promotes peace and national development.
For his part, the President of the Press Union of Liberia (PUL), Julius Kanubah, appealed to President Boakai to support the completion of the national headquarters of the PUL.
Kanubah said: “The PUL remains committed to constructing its headquarters on the land acquired by the organization since 1997”.
He acknowledged past challenges surrounding funds previously contributed toward the proposed headquarters, but said the Union remains committed to transparency and accountability.
Kanubah said the proposed facility would serve as a national home for press freedom, professional development, ethical journalism, and the protection of journalists.
The PUL President then expressed hope that the Presidential Dinner with the Media would serve as a defining moment for renewed intervention toward the construction of the PUL Headquarters.
Meanwhile, the Director General of the Liberia Broadcasting System (LBS), Eugene Fahngon, has praised President Boakai for the level of media freedom, freedom of expression, and constructive engagements with journalists across the country.
Fahngon said:” The gathering represented a major moment in strengthening the relationship between the government and the Liberian media community”.
He described Liberian journalists and media institutions as essential partners in promoting democracy, accountability, and good governance.
According to him, the media continues to play a critical role in informing the public, holding institutions accountable, and contributing to national development.