LEGISPOOL President Calls for Peaceful Coexistence b/w Govt, Security and Press

Capitol Hill: Legislative Press Pool President has called on the Government to Uphold Freedom of the Press as the World Commemorates Press Freedom Day.

Gerald Koinyeneh on Friday issued a resounding call to the national government to consistently support a free press by granting easy access to information.

LEGISPOOL President, emphasized that World Press Freedom Day was proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in the 1990s to be universally celebrated on May 3rd each year, recognizing the significant role played by journalists, including their sacrifices in the global peace-building process.

Koinyeneh noted that journalists often face different forms of harassment and physical violence from state security, intimidation and threats from politicians, and challenges from major stakeholders while seeking access to information to serve society.

Regarding this year’s theme, “A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the Face of the Environmental Crisis,” Koinyeneh stated that the theme aligns with global events, highlighting the challenging conditions media practitioners face daily while seeking access to information.

Mr. Koinyeneh stressed the importance of according journalists courtesy and cooperation from relevant authorities as they report on issues such as climate migration, extractive industries, illegal mining, pollution, poaching, animal trafficking, deforestation, or climate change among others.

“Despite economic challenges, intimidations, threats, and personal challenges, journalists remain resolute in ensuring the public's access to information on key global issues,” Koinyeneh affirmed.

He explained that lack of collaboration and understanding between the national government and journalists hinders their peaceful coexistence, which is detrimental to the public, emphasizing that the right to information is a fundamental right, not a privilege.

Koinyeneh emphasized the need for accurate, timely, and comprehensive reporting on environmental issues and their consequences, as well as potential solutions, to achieve sustainable development.

He lauded journalists for their invaluable services despite the challenges they face and encouraged them to continue providing accurate, balanced, and credible information.

“I wish you all a happy World Press Freedom Day,” Mr. Koinyeneh concluded.

The LEGISPOOL leader sounded the call Friday, May 3, 2024 during the celebration of World Press Freedom Day in Monrovia.