Fahngon cited numerous attacks against him since taking office, which he believes are designed to undermine his efforts to make LBS a leading national broadcaster.
Monrovia—The Director General of the Liberia Broadcasting System (LBS), Eugene Fahngon, has responded to allegations made by the LBS Workers Union, calling them a “malicious campaign” intended to derail his efforts to revamp the institution.
By: Francis G. Boayue, [email protected]
Addressing a press conference over the weekend, Fahngon described the workers’ union’s criticisms as unfounded and aimed at discrediting his progress in improving the LBS.
He cited numerous attacks against him since taking office, which he believes are designed to undermine his efforts to make LBS a leading national broadcaster.
The LBS Workers Union had last week accused Fahngon of alleged abuses and poor administrative practices during his tenure, including fostering a hostile work environment characterized by intimidation, harassment, and verbal abuse. They also cited instances of labor rights violations, including the suspension of employee benefits and arbitrary dismissals.
However, Fahngon dismissed these allegations, stating that there has been no point in time where he made unilateral decisions affecting the welfare and well-being of LBS workers. He maintained that his efforts have been focused on improving the institution, and that the criticisms are merely an attempt to discredit him.
“The numerous attacks against me since I assumed the role as Director General of LBS are only meant to discredit me and my tremendous effort revamping the LBS as second to none,” Fahngon said.
The workers’ union had given Fahngon a 72-hour ultimatum to address their grievances, which include the restoration of suspended benefits, an end to intimidation and harassment, and reinstatement of Peter Clinton, an employee who was allegedly unfairly dismissed.
The workers’ union of LBS expressed disappointment over Mr. Fahngon failure to deliver on promises made when he assumed office. They have called on President Joseph Nyuma Boakai to intervene, citing Fahngon’s leadership style as detrimental to LBS’s growth and performance as a national broadcaster.
The standoff between Fahngon and the workers’ union has raised concerns about the working conditions at LBS and the impact on employees’ mental health. Some staff have reportedly fallen ill due to work-related stress, with no support from management.
The situation at LBS remains tense, with both sides refusing to back down. The outcome of the dispute remains uncertain, with the possibility of further action by the workers’ union or intervention by President Boakai.
