Monrovia. The Government of Liberia has reiterated its commitment to upholding press freedom, describing it as a cornerstone of democracy and national development.
Delivering the keynote address at the World Press Freedom Day celebration in Kakata, Presidential Press Secretary Atty. Kula Bonah Nyei Fofana said the administration of Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr. remains resolute in protecting and expanding the democratic space within which the media operates.
Speaking on the global theme, “Shaping a World at Peace: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Security, and Development,” Fofana emphasized that Liberia’s national focus aligns with advancing press freedom as a driver of human rights and development under the government’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development.
She stressed that press freedom is not a privilege granted by the state but a fundamental constitutional right, noting that a free, independent, and responsible press is essential to sustaining Liberia’s democracy.
“The government sees the media not as an adversary, but as a critical partner in nation-building,” Fofana said, adding that journalists play a vital role in informing citizens, promoting accountability, and amplifying public voices.
Fofana outlined several key commitments by the administration, including strengthening legal and institutional protections for journalists, promoting ethical and professional journalism, improving access to public information, and addressing concerns related to journalists’ welfare and safety.
She acknowledged ongoing challenges facing the media, particularly issues of working conditions and security, and called for sustained dialogue between the government and the Press Union of Liberia to find lasting solutions.
Highlighting progress, the Presidential Press Secretary noted that Liberia has seen an increase in registered media institutions, signaling a growing and vibrant media landscape. She also pointed out that there are currently no political prisoners or jailed journalists in the country, describing it as a deliberate policy stance reflecting respect for freedom of expression.
Fofana further cited initiatives aimed at strengthening government-media relations, including the introduction of the Presidential Media Dinner to foster dialogue and trust, as well as regular press briefings that provide journalists access to information and direct engagement with government officials.
She said journalists are increasingly being given opportunities to accompany the President on both domestic and international trips, ensuring accurate and firsthand reporting of national activities.
Despite these strides, Fofana cautioned against the dangers of misinformation and disinformation, warning that they pose serious threats to public trust and national stability.
“Press freedom must be exercised responsibly,” she said, urging media practitioners to uphold integrity, accuracy, and professionalism in their work.
She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment where the media can operate freely and safely, while also encouraging collaboration among stakeholders to strengthen Liberia’s democratic institutions.
Fofana concluded by commending journalists for their role in advancing transparency and accountability, urging renewed commitment from all sectors of society to protect and promote press freedom.
World Press Freedom Day is observed annually on May 3 to celebrate the fundamental principles of press freedom and evaluate its state worldwide.
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