The Association of Liberia Community Radios (ALICOR) has strongly condemned the suspension of Jerry Quoi, Manager of Radio Kakata, by Margibi County Superintendent Victoria Wolobah Duncan. The association expressed deep concern over what it views as unwarranted interference in the station’s affairs.
ALICOR emphasized that such actions undermine the independence and integrity of community radio stations, which are vital platforms for local voices. The suspension, according to ALICOR, disregards established protocols and governance structures of Radio Kakata.
In a statement released over the weekend, ALICOR President Hector Mulbah stated, “ALICOR strongly condemns the unlawful suspension of Manager Jerry Quoi by Superintendent Victoria Wolobah Duncan. This interference sets a dangerous precedent and threatens the autonomy of community radio stations in Liberia.”
Mulbah continued, “The reasons cited for Mr. Quoi’s suspension are outside the jurisdiction of the county superintendent and should be addressed through Radio Kakata’s Advisory Board. ALICOR demands the immediate reinstatement of Jerry Jenkins Quoi as Manager of Radio Kakata.”
ALICOR further warned against political interference in the operations of community radios across the country, asserting that such actions amount to censorship and hinder the democratic process in Liberia.
The association called on international partners, including Internews and ECOWAS, to take note of the situation and support efforts to uphold the independence of community radio stations across Liberia.
ALICOR is troubled by the continuous interference of political actors in the running of Radio Kakata since its founding in 2004 by the USAID funded Mercy Corps “Diompilor Program.”
“There should be no political interference in the running of the station as it is a community radio which should be the Voice of the people,” the statement said.
Radio Kakata, since its founding, has also been funded by USAID IREX project and currently by Internews.
