Minister of Information, Cultural Affairs, and Tourism, Jerolinmek M. Piah, has issued a clarion call for deeper involvement and stronger unity within the media sector, warning that apathy among key media stakeholders threatens the nation’s democratic fabric.
Speaking at the 22nd anniversary of World Press Freedom Day over the weekend, Piah, in a strong and reflective message, congratulated Liberian journalists and media professionals while highlighting the global significance of the day as designated by the United Nations to promote press freedom and honor the sacrifices of journalists worldwide.
“Since January 2024, the government of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. has fostered a relationship with the media rooted in mutual respect,” Piah noted. “Our administration is committed to ensuring that the press operates free from intimidation, censorship, or suppression.”
However, the Minister expressed deep concern over what he described as the “vague” media landscape in Liberia, particularly the visible absence of media owners, editors, and station managers from the frontline of press freedom advocacy and institutional development.
“Where are the editors? Where are the owners of radio stations? Where are the managers?” Piah asked pointedly. “Are they only interested in the affairs of the Press Union of Liberia during moments of divisive politics?”
He challenged these stakeholders to rise to the occasion and take responsibility for the health and future of the media sector, warning that leaving the burden of leadership solely to younger journalist’s risks weakening the foundations of a free and independent press.
Piah emphasized that this year’s global and national themes “Supporting Journalism in the Brave New World: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media” and “Sustaining Independent Journalism and Press Freedom in the Digital Age” call for renewed focus on innovation, ethical responsibility, and the sustainability of traditional journalism in a rapidly changing digital world.
While recognizing the opportunities that digital platforms and artificial intelligence present, Piah also underscored the dangers of misinformation, fake news, and eroding public trust. “When everyone becomes a news source, the likelihood of misinformation increases,” he warned.
To address these challenges, Minister Piah proposed several key actions: Promoting Verification before Publication – Journalists must strike a balance between timeliness and accuracy, Leveraging Digital Tools – Enhancing research and content quality through technology, and investing in AI and Tech Training – Empowering media practitioners to responsibly integrate AI into their work.
He also reaffirmed the government’s recognition of the Press Union of Liberia’s vital role in self-regulation, expressing hope that ethical standards within the media would be elevated through its leadership.
In closing, Minister Piah issued a resounding call for solidarity: “We must all be involved if we are to build a vibrant and effective press union. I wish you good coordination and continued courage in your important work.”
As Liberia joins the world in celebrating World Press Freedom Day, Piah’s message serves as both a commendation and a caution reminding the nation that a truly free press demands not only freedom from external interference but also committed internal stewardship.
