Liberia: Information Minister Piah Reaffirms Government’s Commitment to Ensuring Maximum Protection For Professional and Ethical Liberian Journalists

MONROVIA – Information Minister Jerolinmek Mathew Piah has reaffirmed the Government of Liberia’s commitment to ensuring maximum protection for professional and ethical Liberian Journalists.

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By Augustus D.R [email protected]

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‎Speaking at the 2nd Annual Presidential Media Dinner at the Ministerial Complex in Congo Town, outside Monrovia on Saturday, September 12, Minister Piah stated that under President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s Administration, no Media Institution will be shut down.

‎He committed that no Liberian Journalist operating professionally and ethically will be censored as there will be no journalist unlawfully detained.

‎He emphasized that those dark days in the Liberian Media will not resurface under this government, stressing that the government is ready to protect Journalists, but those with professional and ethical standards.

He then 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 asserted 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.

Also speaking, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai 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.

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.

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 stated that 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.