NATIONAL NEWS
MONROVIA – World Bank Country Manager for Liberia, Georgia Wallen, has called on Liberian journalists and media institutions to play a stronger role in shaping the country’s future, emphasizing the importance of independent, professional and credible journalism in promoting development and an informed society.
By: Trokon S. Wrepue – trokon1992seokin@gmail.com
Wallen made the remarks on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, during the celebration of the 62nd anniversary of the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) in Monrovia. She told journalists that the media has a vital responsibility to help identify and pursue stories that are critical to Liberia’s future, particularly those that could contribute to building the foundation for a more prosperous and equitable society.
She challenged journalists to go beyond reporting events and to ask difficult questions about Liberia’s future, while helping the public and decision-makers find answers to challenges facing the country.
According to Wallen, an independent and professional media is essential to ensuring that citizens have access to relevant information and that diverse perspectives are reflected in national discourse.
Wallen stressed that credibility remains one of the most important foundations of journalism, saying it is built through a consistent commitment to truth, transparency and accountability. She urged journalists to prioritize fact-checking, provide adequate context and maintain high standards of accuracy and fairness in their reporting.
The World Bank official also underscored the broader role of the media in Liberia’s development process, noting that journalists are uniquely positioned to influence national conversations by asking important questions, exposing issues requiring public attention and amplifying the voices of citizens and residents.
She said such efforts can help promote greater understanding between the public and private sectors and contribute to more informed national decision-making.
Wallen further argued that development depends on an informed public, while an informed public depends on free and responsible journalism. Her remarks placed the media at the centre of Liberia’s democratic and development process, encouraging journalists to use their platforms responsibly while maintaining the independence and professional standards necessary to earn and preserve public trust.
Her message formed part of broader discussions at the PUL’s 62nd anniversary celebration, where media practitioners and stakeholders reflected on the role of journalism in Liberia’s democracy, accountability and sustainable development.
