Liberia: Information Minister-designate Vows Not to be a Government Propagandist

MONROVIA – Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism Minister-designate Jerolinmek Piah has assured that the ministry, under his watch will not serve as a conduit for the spread of fake news and propagandas to the public.

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By Obediah Johnson

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According to him, the ministry would facilitate public communication based on truth-telling.

Mr. Piah added that the ministry will serve as a facilitator for the exchange of ideas and information and not as propagandist for untruth and fake news.

He gave the assurance when he appeared for confirmation at the Liberian Senate on Monday, February 26, 2024.

“We are in the information technology age where in seconds millions of people around the world can receive all the news, gossips, propaganda and sometimes fake news. The dissemination of truthful and timely information to the people of Liberia on the operations of the government will be the foundation of our stewardship.”

Mr. Piah pledged that his administration will engage the leaderships of the other two branches of the government to ensure that key deliverables from their workings are also articulated at MICAT.

He said though he recognizes the excellent work being done by communications professionals at the various branches of the government, a single approach is require for the propagating of government’s programs and achievements.

He called on the Liberian Senate to give urgent attention to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s proposal for the establishment of a National Tourism Authority for rapid economic benefits to the nation and its people.

Mr. Piah noted that coordination with government ministries, agencies and corporations will be the overriding operational objective of his administration.

He stressed that the ministry will strengthen its partnership and collaboration with the Liberian media and other partners.

He observed that the media remains very critical to the promotion of good governance, peace, security and reconciliation in the society.

Mr. Piah maintained that without a good partnership and support of the media, governance would be more complicated and challenging.

 He stressed the need for the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) to do more in self-regulating the Liberian media in a bid to help minimize or eradicate conflicts between the government and the media.

“We are volunteering our services also to help resolve the leadership impasse currently confronting the Press Union of Liberia (PUL). We will also work with community radio stations across the country to improve their works in ways that will promote peace, unity and development.”

He further observed that Liberia has a rich history, culture and tradition, but not much has been done to tell the Liberian story to the young generation.

He said the post-conflict nation is only well-known to the outside world as a poor and fragile country, noting that, “we must change this irony.”

Mr. Piah vowed to change the negative narratives and perceptions about Liberia from a war-torn country to a nation of glorious opportunities for investment through cultural exchanges.

“We must together rebrand Liberia and strategically open our country to attract investment and promote tourism.”

Mr. Piah said if confirmed, he would be inheriting a demoralized and demotivated workforce, noting that, “we will work to change their story.”

He, however, promised to create a professional and conducive working environment for employees at the ministry.

According to him, the ministry has been abandoned and neglected for a prolong period of time.

“This sad story and chapter can come to an end with your support. Briefings received so far revealed a lot; a dilapidated building, leaking offices, lack of equipment or working tools, no transportation for employees; woeful salary structures with some earning as long as US$40.”