NATIONAL NEWS
KAKATA – Liberia has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding press freedom, emphasizing that no true democracy can exist without a free, independent, and responsible media.
Delivering a World Press Freedom Day address in Kakata, Presidential Press Secretary Kula Bonah Nyei Fofana said the government, under the leadership of Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr., views the press as a vital partner in national development, accountability, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
By: Kabina S. Kabah – kabinaskabah98@gmail.com
Fofana noted that this year’s global theme, “Shaping a World at Peace: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Security, and Development,” aligns with the administration’s national priorities and its ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development.
While acknowledging the media’s critical role in strengthening democratic governance, she stressed that government support must go beyond rhetoric. According to her, Liberia is taking steps to strengthen legal and institutional protections for journalists to ensure they are not intimidated or silenced while carrying out their duties.
At the same time, Fofana called on media practitioners to uphold professionalism, accuracy, and integrity, warning that press freedom must be exercised with responsibility.
On access to information, she underscored that transparency remains key to enabling citizens to make informed decisions and hold public institutions accountable. She pointed to ongoing efforts to improve communication between the government and the media, including regular presidential and Ministry of Information press briefings that allow journalists to engage directly with national leadership.
Highlighting governance commitments, Fofana stated that Liberia currently has no political prisoners or jailed journalists, describing this as a deliberate policy consistent with freedom of expression and respect for the rule of law.
She also referenced initiatives aimed at strengthening government-media relations, including the Presidential Media Dinner and expanded opportunities for journalists to accompany the President on both domestic and international engagements for firsthand reporting.
Despite these gains, Fofana acknowledged persistent challenges, particularly the growing impact of misinformation and disinformation on public perception. She warned that the misuse of information poses risks to national stability and public trust.
She called for a balanced approach that upholds openness while ensuring integrity, and independence alongside accountability.
Fofana described journalists as indispensable to Liberia’s progress toward transparency, accountability, and sustainable development, urging renewed commitment from government, the media, and society to protect free expression, defend truth, and promote peace and development across the country.
