MONROVIA – Press Secretary Kula Bonah Fofana, who serves under President Joseph Boakai, is facing serious accusations of corruption that have put her at odds with journalists assigned to cover the Executive Mansion. Fofana, who was recommended for the role by Senate Pro Tempore Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence, is accused of diverting funds intended for journalists, leading to a growing outcry from the press.
According to sources within the Ministry of State, a substantial amount of money was allocated to Fofana to distribute to reporters as a token of appreciation for their work. However, it is alleged that Fofana kept the funds for herself instead of passing them on to the journalists. In an attempt to conceal this, she reportedly pressured some reporters to sign financial documents, falsely confirming they had received the payments. Several reporters have spoken out, saying they refused to participate in this alleged cover-up.
Insiders further claim that this is not an isolated incident. Fofana is said to routinely accept funds on behalf of her office staff and journalists, only to keep the money for personal use. As a result, tensions have escalated, with reporters accusing her of being self-serving and disregarding their needs. Many have complained about her deteriorating relationship with the media and the limitations they now face in accessing President Boakai or receiving their rightful benefits.
One particularly frustrating incident occurred during a cabinet meeting, where reporters were left waiting from morning until late in the evening without any provisions or financial compensation. An insider revealed that Fofana had signed for the journalists’ benefits but had not distributed them, further aggravating the situation.
The discord between Fofana and the reporters came to a head during an event at the Liberia Petroleum Refining Company (LPRC) on August 9, 2024. After reporters interviewed Managing Director Amos Tweh, Fofana allegedly instructed her aide, Lovett, to collect transportation money on their behalf. However, Lovett remained silent about the amount received, only stating that it was for Fofana. Reporters later learned that the amount was allegedly $3,000, which they claim Fofana kept for herself.
These events have left reporters increasingly disillusioned. Those who once viewed Fofana as a moral authority now question her integrity, with many challenging her directly after the LPRC event. Despite their protests, Fofana and her office have not provided a satisfactory response, deepening the growing rift.
During a recent trip to Rivercess County for the dedication of a new courthouse, Fofana did not invite the Executive Mansion reporters. Those who attended had to force their way into the event, only to leave empty-handed, as Fofana allegedly kept the money meant for them. “I regret that I went,” one frustrated reporter stated. “We left the same way we came.”
In response to these repeated incidents, the Executive Mansion reporters have collectively decided to avoid Fofana. They have declared her persona non grata and are calling on President Boakai to replace her with someone more capable of fostering a respectful and productive relationship with the media.
At this stage, neither Fofana nor the Executive Mansion has publicly addressed the allegations, leaving many to wonder how this controversy will impact the administration’s reputation for transparency and accountability. The situation remains unresolved, with mounting pressure for action to be taken against Fofana.
