PUL Marks 62 Years With Push to Empower Independent Media, Strengthen Democracy

MONROVIA — The Press Union of Liberia (PUL) is set to mark its 62nd anniversary on September 30, 2026, with a renewed call for stronger independent media, greater accountability and the protection of journalists’ rights in Liberia.

The Union announced Thursday that the anniversary celebration will be held in Monrovia under the theme, “62 Years On: Empowering Independent Media for Democracy, Accountability, and Sustainable Development.”

According to a press release signed by PUL President Julius Kanubah, the celebration will feature a grand parade through Monrovia, followed by an indoor program with motivational speeches and a high-level panel discussion on the role of independent media in advancing democracy, accountability and sustainable development.

The anniversary comes as the Union continues its longstanding advocacy for press freedom, freedom of expression, journalists’ rights and accountable democratic governance.

The PUL said the occasion will also provide an opportunity to reflect on the media’s contribution to national development and the challenges confronting journalists and media institutions.

PUL to Release Media Ethics, Press Freedom Report

A major highlight of the celebration will be the release of a report by the National Media Council of Liberia detailing cases investigated involving ethical breaches, press freedom infringements and challenges to freedom of speech and expression.

The Union said the report forms part of its broader efforts to promote ethical journalism while protecting the rights and professional independence of media practitioners.

The anniversary will also spotlight the PUL’s renewed efforts to construct its National Headquarters, which the Union envisions as a permanent center for press freedom advocacy, professional development, ethical journalism and the protection of journalists.

150 Participants Expected

The PUL expects approximately 150 participants, including journalists, media practitioners, civil society representatives, journalism students and stakeholders from government, diplomatic missions and the private sector.

The Union said the gathering is intended to provide opportunities for professional learning, networking, experience-sharing and strengthening solidarity among media practitioners.

It also encouraged journalists, communication professionals and members of the public to participate in the celebration, describing the anniversary as an opportunity to reflect on the media’s role in shaping Liberia’s democratic and developmental future.

Attendance, the PUL noted, is an essential requirement for members seeking to remain in good standing with the Union.

Full Anniversary Itinerary Due Monday

The PUL said it will release the full itinerary for the anniversary celebration on Monday, September 28, including the names of motivational speakers and distinguished panelists expected from international development finance and investment, diplomacy, law, government and the media.

Souvenir T-shirts and caps are available at a minimum cost at the Union’s headquarters on Warner Avenue, 9th Street, Sinkor. The items are also being dispatched to journalists and media practitioners across Liberia.

The September 30 celebration will mark 62 years of the Union’s existence and advocacy for journalists’ rights, independent media and freedom of expression in Liberia.