The Acting Chairperson of the Liberia Telecommunication Authority (LTA), Abdullah Kamara, has called for greater media responsibility, digital inclusion, and stronger legal protections for journalists during the national observance of World Press Freedom Day.
He spoke at the World Press Freedom Day organized by the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) on Saturday, May 3, 2025, in Monrovia under the theme: “Sustaining Independent Journalism and Press Freedom,” brought together journalists, media stakeholders, government officials, and civil society organizations to reflect on the evolving landscape of press freedom in Liberia.
In his keynote address, Kamara acknowledged the transformative impact of technology on journalism but warned that it also presents significant challenges to truth, accountability, and independence in the media.
He emphasized the need for journalists to embrace technological advancements while adhering to their core values of accuracy and ethical reporting.
“The future of journalism lies not in resisting technology but in mastering it critically and responsibly,” Kamara stated. “While the digital age offers vast opportunities, it also demands more from us in terms of responsibility,” he said.
Kamara also addressed the issue of internet access, revealing that Liberia has achieved 100% coverage through a temporary Starlink license issued last year. Ongoing discussions with service providers aim to ensure sustainable, affordable internet access for all Liberians, with a particular focus on journalists and underserved communities.
“Affordable and reliable internet is not a luxury it is essential for professional journalism and national development,” Kamara emphasized.
Kamara highlighted ongoing efforts to advance a cybercrime bill, which includes protections against AI misuse. The bill, which is currently under review by the Ministry of Justice and other relevant bodies, aims to safeguard press freedom and ensure that journalists can work without fear of harassment.
“Press freedom is critical to our democracy, and as regulators, we are committed to creating an environment where the mission of the press can be fulfilled freely and safely,” he affirmed.
Kamara saluted the courage and resilience of journalists across Liberia, from Monrovia to the most remote counties, recognizing their indispensable role in shaping Liberia’s democratic landscape.
Making remarks, Information Minister Jerolinmek Piah emphasized the government’s commitment to press freedom and called for increased media accountability and technological investment.
Minister Piah acknowledged the collaborative efforts between the media and the government since January 2024, highlighting steps taken to ensure a free and independent press. He stated, “Without a free, independent, and vibrant media, Liberia’s democratic credentials remain incomplete.”
Addressing the challenges posed by the digital age, Piah noted the rise of misinformation due to the proliferation of unverified news sources on social media.
He urged journalists to exercise patience and verify information before publication, balancing timeliness with accuracy.
He also stressed the importance of leveraging digital tools to enhance journalistic content and called on media houses to invest in technology and artificial intelligence training.
He emphasized that such investments would bolster the independence and credibility of the media.
Highlighting the role of media owners and managers, Piah questioned their engagement with the Union, urging them to actively participate beyond political interests.
He challenged them to support the PUL’s initiatives and contribute to elevating journalistic standards.
Minister Piah reaffirmed the government’s support for a self-regulated media landscape, expressing hope that the PUL would uphold and elevate ethical standards within the profession.
The president of the PUL, Julius Kanubah made a strong call for unity among media practitioners, ethical reporting, and a collective commitment to defending press freedom amid growing concerns over journalists’ safety, political interference, and economic challenges in the media landscape.
In his official World Press Freedom Day statement delivered, he acknowledged the expanding role of both traditional and digital media, applauding the contributions of private online journalists to the country’s access to information.
“You are making significant contributions to expanding access to information across our country, and we recognize and appreciate your efforts,” he admonished his colleagues especially those who are in mainstream media.
He noted that while Liberia emerged from years of civil unrest with a commitment to democratic governance in 2006, press freedom and the rights of journalists have continued to face constraints due to political, economic, and structural challenges.
Kanubah expressed concern about the impact of the withdrawal of U.S. funding to the media sector and urged President Boakai and his administration to act urgently to mitigate the resulting shocks. “A free, independent, and well-supported media is not a luxury it is essential to our democracy and development,” he emphasized.
He also highlighted the need for ethical journalism and responsible reporting, warning against hate speech and misinformation. “We are gatekeepers of information and it is our duty to ensure that freedom of expression is practiced with integrity and responsibility,” he said.
He took a balanced stance on political discourse, stating that while it does not support political actors who threaten the peace and stability of the country, it also condemns any infringement on political actors’ rights to free speech. “We must work together to strengthen our democracy by respecting divergent political views, even when we disagree,” he urged.
Touching on internal matters, the PUL president said efforts are underway to decentralize the union and include community media in national conversations. He announced plans to resume the Union’s Annual Journalism Awards in September, following restructuring since the current leadership assumed office in October 2024.
He concluded by saluting all journalists, media professionals, and communication practitioners for their dedication to the profession. “The Press Union of Liberia will never die. The Press Union will survive and as long as I am here, it will be strong, united, and committed to its mission.”
