MONROVIA, LIBERIA – The Reporters Association of Liberia (RAL), a key auxiliary of the Press Union of Liberia, has issued a stern call for the immediate dismissal of Eugene Fahngon, Director General of the Liberia Broadcasting System (LBS). The association also demands the reinstatement of Joseph Sayon, President of the LBS Workers Union, whose recent dismissal has generated outrage.
In a press release issued on Friday, January 24, 2025, and signed by Bobby M. Tingban, Acting Secretary-General, with approval from RAL President Willie N. Tokpah, the organization condemned Mr. Fahngon’s leadership, labeling it as toxic and detrimental to LBS operations. The release emphasized that Mr. Fahngon’s actions, including the dismissal of Mr. Sayon, represent a direct violation of Liberia’s Labor Law, which guarantees workers the right to unionize and advocate for their interests.
RAL also argued that the dismissal undermines the Freedom of Information Act, a cornerstone of transparency and accountability in public institutions. They warned that retaining Mr. Fahngon in his position risks escalating tensions within LBS, further destabilizing the institution tasked with keeping the public informed.
The association has urged President Joseph Nyuma Boakai to intervene promptly, emphasizing the need to remove Mr. Fahngon from his post. RAL further recommended the appointment of an acting leadership team to restore order and called for the reinstatement of Joseph Sayon to his position as a reporter.
“The continued presence of Eugene Fahngon at LBS is untenable,” RAL stated, adding that delays in decisive action could lead to staff unrest and disruptions to LBS’s vital operations.
RAL insists that addressing the situation swiftly will not only restore trust within the organization but also uphold the integrity of Liberia’s media landscape.
