By G. Watson Richards
The Press Union of Liberia (PUL) has established two key committees to lead the 2026 World Press Freedom Day celebrations and oversee the National Media Awards recognizing top journalists and media institutions for their work in 2025.
The events are scheduled for May 3–5 in Kakata City, Margibi County.
PUL emphasized a decentralized and inclusive approach, appointing regional media leaders to ensure transparent and effective planning.
Christiana Sonpon, Margibi County Sub-Chapter Coordinator, will chair the World Press Freedom Day Committee, with co-chairs representing Bomi, Gbarpolu, Grand Cape Mount, and Montserrado counties.
The committee will be supported by journalists and media practitioners in program development and publicity, coordinated by Florence Flomo of the PUL Office of National Media Coordination.
The National Media Awards Committee will be chaired by Torwon Solunteh Brown, with Solomon A. Ware as co-chair and Varney Vikings Karneh as secretary.
The committee includes 12 other prominent journalists, alongside leadership from all PUL regional coordinators and sub-chapter officials, ensuring wide-based participation and transparency.
According to PUL President Julius Kanubah the World Press Freedom Day and the National Media Awards are essential in celebrating the coverage, integrity, and professionalism of Liberian journalists.
“The World Press Freedom Day and our National Media Awards are vital in celebrating the courage, integrity, and professionalism of Liberian journalists. These committees will ensure both events uphold the highest standards and reflect our commitment to free, fair, and responsible media,” Kanubah noted in a statement.
As Liberia’s foremost media organization and a member of the International Federation of Journalists, PUL’s annual awards are recognized nationally and internationally for their prestige and independence.
Kanubah added, “These initiatives demonstrate the strength of Liberia’s media community and our dedication to promoting press freedom, accountability, and professional excellence.”
