President Joseph Nyuma Boakai on Thursday hosted the first Presidential Media Dinner of his administration, assuring Liberian journalists of his government’s commitment to protecting press freedom and fostering transparency and accountability.
Held at the EJS Ministerial Complex in Monrovia, the event drew dozens of media professionals, civil society actors, and government officials in what the President described as a gesture of appreciation and partnership. In his address, Boakai hailed the media’s role in defending democracy and pledged that under his leadership, no journalist will be silenced, unlawfully detained, or censored.
“Criticism is not a threat to democracy; it is its essence,” Boakai said. He reaffirmed support for key press freedom initiatives, including Liberia’s endorsement of the Table Mountain Declaration, the enactment of the Abdullah K. Abdullah Act, and the establishment of the Commission on Information. He emphasized that the Freedom of Information Act would remain in full effect, describing public access to information as a fundamental right.
Boakai also pointed to a surge in media registrations, over 40 outlets since his inauguration, as proof of a vibrant press environment.
Information Minister Jerolinmek Matthew Piah officially opened the event, drawing historical parallels to similar engagements during the presidency of William V.S. Tubman. He stressed that the dinner was more than symbolic, as it marked a revival of constructive dialogue between government and the press. Piah reaffirmed that no media house would face closure for its editorial position, though he underscored the need for responsible journalism. Using a metaphor, he compared the media-government relationship to Torborgee, a spicy Liberian dish that must be handled wisely to avoid harm, warning against incitement and recalling the tragic consequences of unchecked media in Rwanda.
Piah further announced that the Presidential Media Dinner will now become an annual tradition and thanked the nine-member planning committee that made the event possible.
Press Union of Liberia President Daniel Nyakonah Kanubah responded with both praise and pointed concerns. While commending the President’s outreach, Kanubah urged the administration to uphold the rule of law and tackle corruption through institutional reforms. He outlined challenges facing the media, including delayed payments from government for media services, declining ad revenues, donor withdrawal, particularly by USAID, and interference with community radio stations.
Kanubah also called for the Liberia Broadcasting System to be depoliticized and transformed into a true public service broadcaster. He welcomed the President’s gesture as a positive first step toward rebuilding trust.
As the evening concluded, President Boakai mingled with journalists and officials, reinforcing his message that open dialogue and mutual respect are critical to Liberia’s democratic progress.
