MONROVIA – The Press Union of Liberia (PUL) voices its deep concern regarding the exclusion of two journalists, Stephen Sonpon of Prime FM and Joseph Daniels of OK FM, from covering President George Weah’s campaign events.
In a press release issued on Friday, PUL calls upon the Executive Mansion to promptly end the exclusion of these journalists’ coverage of President Weah’s campaign.
During President Weah’s campaign tour in Bomi in August, citizens of the county expressed significant dissatisfaction with Senator Morris Saytumah’s performance during his nine years in office. While President Weah and Senator Edwin Snowe sought to engage and persuade voters, the citizens, in a display of their democratic rights, expressed their disapproval of Senator Saytumah through jeers and boos. This incident was accurately reported by Sonpon and Daniels, adhering to the fundamental journalistic principle of truth-telling, much to the disapproval of the Executive Mansion.
The Press Union of Liberia underscores the importance of allowing journalists to operate freely, especially during critical election periods like the upcoming October 10 polls, without any perceived interference from the authority. The Executive Mansion should not be an exception to this principle.
Furthermore, PUL calls upon the Executive Mansion to ensure that all accredited journalists covering the Presidency are granted the freedom, amenities to work and report on rallies without any intimidation or bias. It is vital to acknowledge that these journalists are also citizens of Liberia, actively contributing to the democratic process.
The Press Union of Liberia remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding the rights and safety of journalists across the country. We appeal for a swift resolution of this matter to ensure the return to active duty of our dedicated members.
