By By: Alphanso G. Kalama;
Congo Town, Monrovia — In a night marked by unity, reflection, and renewed commitment to press freedom, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai used the First Annual Presidential Media Dinner to reaffirm his administration’s dedication to protecting the rights of journalists and fostering a transparent, democratic society.
Held at the EJS Ministerial Complex in Congo Town, the event brought together media professionals, government officials, and civil society stakeholders in what many hailed as a historic and unprecedented engagement between the presidency and the press.
Addressing the gathering, President Boakai acknowledged the critical role of the Liberian media in nurturing democracy, lauding their courage and integrity despite the immense challenges they face. “Yours is not an easy calling,” he said, “It demands courage, sacrifice, and, above all, integrity.”
The President emphasized that Liberia’s democratic growth hinges on a free and vibrant press, pledging his unwavering support to safeguarding journalistic freedoms. He pointed to Liberia’s commitment to the Table Mountain Declaration and reaffirmed his administration’s enforcement of the Freedom of Information Act as well as the Abdullah K. Abdullah Act, which protects journalists from intimidation and arbitrary arrests.
“Under my leadership,” President Boakai vowed, “Liberia will have no political prisoners and no press suppression. Criticism is not a threat to democracy; it is its essence.”
Boakai also highlighted tangible steps his government is taking to advance media freedom, including the establishment of a Commission on Information to promote transparency and strengthen the public’s right to access information. He noted that since assuming office, the number of registered media outlets has grown significantly, a development he attributed to a political climate that values open dialogue and freedom of expression.
While celebrating these strides, the President acknowledged the road ahead, urging the media and government to continue working hand in hand to elevate professionalism, combat misinformation, and ensure journalists’ safety nationwide.
Adding to the night’s significance, Julius Kanubah, President of the Press Union of Liberia (PUL), delivered a stirring address highlighting both appreciation and concern. Kanubah praised the President for his openness and called the dinner a milestone in building trust between the government and the media.
He, however, voiced pressing challenges faced by the media sector, including dwindling advertising revenues, poor journalist welfare, and the withdrawal of international support like USAID’s media development programs. “The media remains severely challenged, both in terms of human and financial resources,” he said, warning that media viability is under threat as debts pile up and working conditions deteriorate.
Kanubah also called for reforms within the Liberia Broadcasting System, advocating its transformation into a true public service broadcaster representing all Liberians. He condemned political interference in community radio stations and urged the President to safeguard their independence.
On a broader note, the PUL President underscored the importance of upholding the rule of law and fighting corruption through lawful means, warning that the peace and development of the country depend on a justice system that works for all.
Echoing the President’s own words, Kanubah closed his remarks with a rallying call: “It is time: We Think the Media. Love the Media. And Build the Media.”
As the evening drew to a close, there was a shared sense of hope and resolve. Both the government and the press appeared poised to deepen cooperation and mutual respect, marking a promising chapter in Liberia’s democratic journey.
The dinner may have been the first of its kind, but its message was loud and clear—it won’t be the last.
