MONROVIA, LIBERIA – The Press Union of Liberia is set to mark its 62nd Anniversary on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, with a major celebration centered on the role of independent media in strengthening democracy, promoting accountability, and supporting Liberia’s sustainable development.
The anniversary, being observed under the theme “62 Years On: Empowering Independent Media for Democracy, Accountability, and Sustainable Development,” is expected to bring together journalists, media practitioners, civil society representatives, journalism students, government officials, diplomats, private sector representatives, and other stakeholders for a day of reflection, professional engagement, and solidarity.
According to the Union, the anniversary represents another chapter in its longstanding efforts to champion the rights of journalists, defend freedom of speech and expression, and advocate for accountable democratic governance in Liberia.
The celebration will begin with a grand parade in Monrovia before transitioning into an indoor program featuring motivational speeches and a high level panel discussion examining how independent media can be better empowered to contribute to democracy, accountability, and sustainable national development.
The choice of this year’s theme places the future of independent journalism at the center of the anniversary activities at a time when the media continues to play an important role in informing citizens, reporting on public institutions, giving visibility to national issues, and providing a platform for public discussion.
For the PUL, the anniversary is not simply a commemoration of its existence but an opportunity to examine the responsibilities and opportunities confronting the Liberian media as the country continues to strengthen its democratic institutions.
The Union said its anniversary activities will also provide journalists and other participants with an opportunity to learn from experienced professionals, exchange views, build networks, and strengthen solidarity within the media community.
Approximately 150 participants are expected to attend the celebration, reflecting the Union’s intention to bring together different sectors connected to journalism, governance, development, and public communication.
The PUL said the anniversary will also highlight its broader commitment to professional journalism and the protection of journalists, while creating space for conversations about the relationship between an independent media and sustainable national development.
The Union is additionally using the occasion to renew attention to its effort to construct a National Headquarters, which it envisions as a permanent institutional home for press freedom, professional development, ethical journalism, and the protection of journalists.
The headquarters initiative adds an institutional dimension to this year’s anniversary, as the Union seeks to establish a permanent facility capable of supporting its activities and providing a lasting base for programs connected to journalism and press freedom.
As part of preparations for the celebration, souvenir T shirts and caps are being made available at the Union’s Head Office on Warner Avenue, 9th Street, Sinkor, at a minimum cost. The Union said the items are also being dispatched to journalists and media practitioners in other parts of Liberia.
The PUL is expected to release the complete itinerary of the anniversary activities on Monday, September 28, including the names of motivational speakers and distinguished panelists from international development finance and investment, diplomacy, law, government, and the media.
The Union has encouraged journalists, media and communication practitioners, and members of the public to participate in the anniversary celebration.
For PUL members, participation carries an additional professional importance, as attendance is described as an essential requirement for members seeking to remain in good standing.
The Union said the anniversary will provide members with opportunities to learn from experts, network, exchange views, strengthen professional solidarity, and socialize after months of reporting, analyzing, and debating the issues shaping Liberia.
The 62nd Anniversary therefore brings together commemoration and professional reflection, with the PUL seeking to use the occasion to reinforce the place of independent journalism in Liberia’s democratic and development process.
