Reporters assigned to cover the Executive Mansion and the presidency have threatened a media blackout due to what they describe as persistent humiliation and a lack of cooperation from President Joseph Boakai’s Press Secretary, Kula Fofana.
Journalists representing a variety of print, electronic, and online media outlets are expressing growing dissatisfaction with the working conditions under Fofana’s supervision.
Reporters allege that Kula Fofana consistently exhibits unprofessional behavior, undermining their ability to effectively cover the activities of the Executive Mansion. “When we went with the President to Bomi County to provide coverage, while coming back, our bus suffered a punctured tire. Kula did not get down from her car to inquire what happened; she abandoned us and came to town,” one reporter recalled. According to the media group, they were left stranded and starving until late in the evening when another bus finally arrived to transport them back.
The aggrieved reporters claim that Fofana’s actions have repeatedly shown a lack of concern for their welfare and professional needs. “She only cares for the Executive Mansion’s Facebook Page, ignoring the presence of other reporters,” one journalist complained, highlighting a pattern of neglect that has strained their relationship with the press secretary.
The dissatisfaction has led to several reporters temporarily suspending their coverage of the presidency. The “Every Friday” press briefings at the Executive Mansion now see minimal attendance. This reduction in media presence is a direct response to what the reporters describe as Fofana’s dismissive and authoritarian attitude.
The reporters argue that Fofana’s lack of experience in mainstream journalism is a significant factor in the ongoing conflict. Despite holding a bachelor’s degree in mass communication, she has not practiced mainstream journalism and, according to her critics, is not adept at handling media relations. “She is temperate and inscrutable – hard to manage and hard to interpret. As a result, she lacks the jargon of mainstream journalism,” stated one of the concerned reporters.
The friction reached a boiling point during the recent graduation ceremony at the Liberia Maritime Institute and President Boakai’s three-day Cabinet Retreat. In both instances, reporters claim they were neglected and not compensated for their work, with Fofana failing to acknowledge their efforts.
Amid the escalating tension, some reporters have turned to Information Minister J. Matthew Piah for intervention. Piah, who served as press secretary during President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf’s second term, has promised to address the issue and mediate between Fofana and the reporters.
Media professionals and observers suggest that President Boakai may have erred in appointing Fofana as the Press Secretary. They argue that the role requires a seasoned journalist or communication expert who understands media dynamics and can foster a cooperative environment with the press.
The situation remains tense as reporters continue to voice their grievances. “Since Kula took over, providing coverage for the presidency is like covering the graveyard – you go clean and come clean,” lamented one reporter. The sentiment reflects the broader frustration felt by many in the press corps who are calling for a change in how they are treated by the Executive Mansion’s communications team.
As the standoff persists, the potential for a full media blackout looms, which could severely impact the coverage of President Boakai’s administration. The press corps is urging immediate action to resolve the issues and restore a professional and respectful working relationship between the Executive Mansion and the media.
The clash between reporters and Kula Fofana highlights the critical importance of effective communication and cooperation between government officials and the media. As the Boakai administration navigates this contentious issue, the focus must be on restoring trust and ensuring that the media can perform its essential role in a democratic society. The resolution of this conflict will be crucial in maintaining the transparency and accountability of the Executive Mansion.
Source: Hot Pepper
