MONROVIA – At today’s media engagement forum, top Liberian media executives expressed strong dissatisfaction with Kula V. Fofana, the Press Secretary to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai. The forum, which included high-ranking officials such as Minister of Information Jerolimek Matthew Piah and Liberia Broadcasting System (LBS) Director General Eugene L. Fahngon, was marked by a heated discussion over Fofana’s perceived inaccessibility and arrogance towards the media.
Media Executives Voice Frustration
Media executives, including publishers and radio station managers, voiced their frustrations, accusing Fofana of being unresponsive to phone calls and text messages. Over ten media leaders highlighted this concern, lamenting that Fofana’s unavailability hampers their ability to gather essential information from the presidency. Adding fuel to the fire, Fofana did not attend the media engagement forum despite being invited by the Minister of Information, further aggravating the media’s concerns.
A Pattern of Unprofessional Behavior
The dissatisfaction with Fofana is not a recent development. Reports have surfaced about her unprofessional conduct towards reporters covering the Executive Mansion. This behavior has led to threats of a media blackout by frustrated reporters, who describe persistent humiliation and a lack of cooperation from the Press Secretary.
Neglect and Disregard
Several incidents illustrate Fofana’s disregard for the reporters’ welfare. During a coverage trip to Bomi County, a bus carrying reporters suffered a punctured tire. Instead of assisting, Fofana reportedly abandoned the group, leaving them stranded until late in the evening. Such actions, reporters argue, demonstrate a pattern of neglect that has strained their relationship with the press secretary.
Strained Relations and Reduced Coverage
Due to Fofana’s dismissive attitude, several reporters have temporarily suspended their coverage of the presidency. The previously well-attended “Every Friday” press briefings at the Executive Mansion now see minimal attendance. Reporters claim Fofana focuses solely on the Executive Mansion’s Facebook Page, ignoring the presence and needs of other journalists.
Lack of Experience and Media Savvy
Critics argue that Fofana’s lack of experience in mainstream journalism contributes to the ongoing conflict. Despite holding a bachelor’s degree in mass communication, she has not practiced in the field, leading to accusations that she lacks the necessary skills to handle media relations effectively. Reporters describe her as “temperate and inscrutable,” difficult to manage, and lacking the jargon and understanding required for her role.
Escalating Tensions
Tensions came to a head during the recent graduation ceremony at the Liberia Maritime Institute and President Boakai’s three-day Cabinet Retreat. Reporters claim they were neglected and not compensated for their work, with Fofana failing to acknowledge their efforts. These incidents have exacerbated the already strained relationship between the press corps and the Press Secretary.
Calls for Intervention
In response to the escalating situation, some reporters have appealed to Information Minister J. Matthew Piah for intervention. Piah, who has experience as a press secretary during President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf’s administration, has promised to address the issue and mediate between Fofana and the reporters.
Criticism of President Boakai’s Appointment
Media professionals and observers suggest that President Boakai may have made an error in appointing Fofana as the Press Secretary. They argue that the role requires a seasoned journalist or communication expert who understands media dynamics and can foster a cooperative environment with the press.
Ongoing Grievances
Reporters continue to voice their grievances, highlighting the challenging working conditions under Fofana’s supervision. “Since Kula took over, providing coverage for the presidency is like covering the graveyard – you go clean and come clean,” lamented one reporter. This sentiment reflects the broader frustration felt by many in the press corps who are calling for a change in how they are treated by the Executive Mansion’s communications team.
Potential Media Blackout
As the standoff persists, the potential for a full media blackout looms, which could severely impact the coverage of President Boakai’s administration. The press corps is urging immediate action to resolve the issues and restore a professional and respectful working relationship between the Executive Mansion and the media. The resolution of this conflict is crucial for maintaining transparency and effective communication between the presidency and the public.
