Press Union of Liberia Notifies Government of Persistent Challenges Hampering Media Productivity

Monrovia, Liberia: In a historic engagement that set the tone for stronger government-media relations, the President of the Press Union of Liberia, Julius Kanubah, has called the Government of Liberia’s attention to the prevailing challenges confronting the Liberian media despite the administration's promises to safeguard press freedom.

By: Abraham Sylvester Panto

Speaking at the first-ever Presidential Media Dinner hosted by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai at the EJS Ministerial Complex, President Kanubah welcomed the opportunity for an open dialogue between the government and media professionals, however emphasizing that such engagements must be matched by concrete policy actions that empower the media and protect journalists’ rights.

Kanubah described the state of the media as severely challenged both in terms of human capacity and financial viability.

He said declining advertising revenues have taken a toll on operations, forcing many institutions into near-collapse and leaving journalists poorly paid and under-resourced.

“The media remains severely challenged—both in human and financial capacity,” Kanubah said, adding that many outlets are unable to afford modern technology or provide fair compensation to journalists, which directly impacts their ability to deliver high-quality journalism.

He used the occasion to call on the government to offer more robust financial and operational support to media outlets, enabling them to function without undue political influence.

“Journalists must be allowed to work without fear of political interference or threats. This is fundamental to ensuring that the media can continue to hold power accountable,” he stated.

The PUL President also stressed the importance of legal protections for journalists while calling for stronger measures to safeguard the rights of reporters in the discharge of their duties.

Responding to Kanubah’s concerns, Minister of Information, Culture, & Tourism Jerolinmek Matthew Piah reaffirmed the Boakai-Koung administration’s commitment to protecting press freedom and strengthening ties with the media.

Minister Piah cited the registration of over 50 new media institutions under the current administration as evidence of government openness and inclusivity.

“This is a clear indication that the government remains responsible and intentional in upholding the principles of free speech,” Minister Piah said.

He assured media practitioners that no journalist would be censored, arbitrarily detained, or persecuted under President Boakai’s leadership.