MONROVIA, LIBERIA – Press freedom has come under renewed threat as journalist Austin M. Kawah, host of the widely followed program “FREEDOM HARD TALK” on Freedom FM, became the target of a violent attack. Kawah’s vehicle was set on fire around 9:15 PM while he was live on air, an incident that underscores growing concerns over the safety of media professionals in the country.
The vehicle, parked on Carey Street outside the Freedom FM premises due to space constraints, was reportedly hit by a petrol bomb thrown by unidentified attackers who fled the scene on a motorcycle. Kawah, recounting the moment he learned of the incident, said, “My producer interrupted the broadcast to inform me that my car was on fire.” Efforts to get a response from the Liberia National Police have so far yielded no results.
Freedom FM, often accused by government supporters of being anti-administration, has drawn significant attention for its critical stance against the leadership of President Joseph Boakai. In the wake of the attack, Freedom FM employee Abu M. Sherif took to social media, accusing the government of orchestrating the act. “This is an assault on press freedom. Our lives are in danger because we dare to question the government’s actions,” Sherif posted.
The incident is part of a broader pattern of hostility toward journalists in Liberia. In recent weeks, media workers, including Nyantee Togba of OK FM, Sylvester Choloplay of the Spoon Network, and Blamo Toe of The Liberian Investigator, have reportedly faced physical attacks by security personnel and government officials.
The Press Union of Liberia (PUL) has condemned these developments, warning that such actions undermine democracy. “Violence against journalists is unacceptable. The press plays a vital role in holding leaders accountable, and we will not stand idly by while these rights are violated,” the union stated.
Kawah’s experience highlights the increasing risks faced by journalists in Liberia. Coupled with recent incidents, such as the assault on Blamo Toe during the “White Tuesday” protest, these attacks have sparked alarm among media advocacy groups and the public.
Calls for thorough investigations into these incidents are mounting, with demands for stronger protections for journalists and greater accountability for perpetrators. Observers warn that failure to address this escalating crisis could further erode press freedom and weaken Liberia’s democratic institutions.
