The President of the Press Union of Liberia (PUL), Julius Kanubah, has called for urgent reforms to improve the pay and working conditions of journalists in Liberia, asserting that fair compensation and structured employment are essential for a free, ethical, and independent press.
He made the appeal during the induction ceremony of the newly elected leadership of the Publishers Association of Liberia (PAL) in Monrovia, a ceremony he described as “an important democratic milestone” for the country’s media landscape.
“As employers and leaders in the media industry, publishers carry a heavy responsibility,” Kanubah emphasized. “The quality of journalism depends largely on the conditions provided for journalists and the standards upheld by media houses. We cannot expect ethical and responsible reporting if journalists are underpaid, uninsured, or working without contracts.”
The PUL President’s remarks come amid growing concerns over the financial and professional vulnerabilities of Liberian journalists. Many reporters, editors, and media staff operate under unstable employment conditions, with some media houses unable to offer regular salaries, health benefits, or contractual protections.
Kanubah said addressing these issues is vital not only for journalists’ welfare but also for the broader democratic health of the nation.
The induction ceremony formally installed Mr. Alphonso Toweh as the new President of PAL. Toweh, a seasoned journalist with decades of experience in print and broadcast media, is joined by Mr. Bai Sama G. Best as Vice President, Mrs. Winnie Saywah Jimmy as Secretary, and Mr. Chester Smith as Financial Secretary.
Kanubah congratulated the new leadership and acknowledged the contributions of the outgoing team led by Mr. Othello Garblah, praising their dedication and service to Liberia’s media community. He also commended Ms. Helen Nah Sammie, who contested the presidency—the only competitive post in the elections—for strengthening the democratic process within PAL. The election of Mrs. Jimmy as secretary, Kanubah noted, underscores PAL’s commitment to gender representation in leadership.
“The induction of this new leadership is more than a ceremonial event,” Kanubah said. “It represents the continued growth of professional journalism in Liberia and the steadfast commitment of publishers to uphold democratic values within our media institutions.”
Kanubah highlighted several recent milestones that demonstrate Liberia’s evolving media landscape. These include the transparent PAL elections, the Legislative Press Pool (LEGISPOOL) elections, and the PUL’s relocation to a new, modern headquarters. “These developments,” he said, “reflect advancement both democratically and developmentally. They show that Liberia’s media community is moving forward in both structure and professionalism.”
He also recognized the efforts of the elections committee, chaired by Mr. Carlton Boah and supported by Mr. Edwin Clarke and Ms. Victoria Wesseh, both seconded by PUL, for ensuring a transparent and fair voting process.
During his address, Kanubah stressed the importance of collaboration between PAL and PUL to strengthen the Liberian media sector. He outlined three strategic areas of focus: promoting ethical standards in journalism, improving working conditions for journalists, and enhancing institutional dignity and sustainability.
On ethical standards, Kanubah emphasized that all media houses must ensure reporting is fair, accurate, and impartial. “Ethical journalism is the foundation of public trust,” he said. “It is our responsibility as media leaders to ensure the stories we produce inform and empower citizens without bias or manipulation.”
Regarding working conditions, he was equally forthright. “Journalists must earn a living wage, have access to health insurance, and work under clear and fair contracts,” he said. “Without these basic protections, the press cannot function independently or hold those in power accountable.”
He also called on PAL members to support the construction of the Stanton Peabody Media House, envisioned as the PUL’s permanent headquarters and a hub for all media auxiliaries, including PAL. “The Media House will not just be a building,” Kanubah said. “It will stand as a symbol of institutional dignity and sustainability for the Liberian media.”
Kanubah concluded his address with a passionate appeal for unity within Liberia’s media community. He urged publishers, reporters, and media organizations to put aside personal differences and work collectively for the protection of journalists’ rights, freedom of expression, and democratic governance.
“It is time we put aside our differences and work together for the rights of journalists, free press, freedom of speech and expression, and democracy in Liberia,” he said, adding that collaboration between PAL and PUL is crucial to achieving these goals.
Liberian journalists face numerous challenges, including low pay, inadequate safety measures, lack of health benefits, and limited opportunities for professional growth. Many work under informal or precarious employment agreements, making them vulnerable to exploitation. Kanubah warned that without structural reforms and employer support, these conditions could undermine the credibility and independence of the media.
“Journalists are the eyes and ears of our democracy,” Kanubah said. “If they are not properly supported, the public suffers, and the democratic process is weakened. Publishers must take the lead in ensuring that those who deliver news and information can work with dignity and professionalism.”
