The Liberia Broadcasting System (LBS) has announced the temporary suspension of its live coverage of the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism’s (MICAT) regular press briefings, citing financial constraints.
The announcement was made Thursday by LBS Director General Eugene Fahngon during a media engagement in Paynesville. According to Fahngon, the decision stems from ongoing funding challenges that have forced the state broadcaster to adopt cost-cutting measures.
“This is not an easy decision, but one that is necessary under the current circumstances,” Fahngon stated. “The lack of adequate funding has left us with no alternative but to temporarily halt the live broadcasts of the MICAT briefings.”
LBS has been airing MICAT’s weekly press conferences ~ typically held on Tuesdays and Thursdays ~ live on its radio, television, and social media platforms. The suspension will remain in effect while discussions are underway between LBS and MICAT to explore a more sustainable broadcasting arrangement.
Fahngon expressed optimism that the issue would be resolved soon and stressed that the station remains committed to public service broadcasting.
As it stands, LBS DG is encouraging government ministries, private institutions, and the general public to take advantage of LBS’s business services for advertising, live event coverage, press conferences, and special programming.
The development has raised concerns among some media observers about the potential impact on public access to timely government information. However, LBS has assured the public that it remains operational and will continue to deliver news and programming through its existing platforms.
