CAPITOL HILL, Monrovia – The Legislative Press Pool (LEGISPOOL), through its Secretary-General Blamo N. Toe, has strongly condemned what it describes as the arbitrary suspension of its Vice President, Jackson C. Clay, Jr., from covering legislative sessions at the Liberian Senate.
Speaking on Monday, May 26, 2025, during a Senate-organized refresher workshop for legislative reporters and staffers at the Capitol Building, Toe highlighted an increasingly strained relationship between LEGISPOOL and the Senate’s Press Department.
LEGISPOOL is the umbrella body representing independent journalists from various media institutions covering the Liberian Legislature.
Toe recounted that VP Clay was removed from the Senate Accredited Journalists Chatroom and subsequently suspended from providing media coverage by the Director of Press and Public Affairs, Mr. Oscar F. Mulbah. This action, he claimed, stemmed solely from Clay expressing dissenting views on matters relating to transparency and accountability.
He added that the Press Department went a step further by formally writing to Clay’s media institution, demanding an apology — a move he described as punitive and disproportionate.
“Our colleague has been denied access to legislative sessions for nearly a month,” Toe said. “President Gerald C. Koinyeneh, the entire LEGISPOOL leadership, and our members are deeply dissatisfied with this decision. It feels more like provocation than deterrence.”
LEGISPOOL described the Press Department’s actions as an attempt to suppress independent voices and discourage constructive criticism — both of which are essential to democratic accountability.
“It is vital that the Department remains receptive to feedback — something our members are committed to offering in the spirit of mutual improvement,” Toe emphasized.
Toe also highlighted several ongoing challenges faced by legislative reporters. These include restricted access to essential documents such as Senate communications, committee reports, and witness testimonies during confirmation hearings.
“Too often, we are told by the Department that such documents are unavailable,” he said. “If the very office responsible for disseminating information cannot provide it, where else should we turn?”
In response, LEGISPOOL recommended that the Senate leadership strengthen communication and collaboration between the Press Department, Senators, and witnesses to ease the burden on reporters and promote transparency.
Toe further criticized the abrupt introduction of new security protocols at the Capitol Building and Senate Chambers, noting that these measures have disrupted reporters’ work. He called for timely communication of any such changes through the Press Department.
He also raised concerns about the consistent exclusion of independent journalists from Senate retreats and events, both locally and internationally. While acknowledging the Department’s press releases, Toe emphasized that independent media coverage fosters public trust.
To address this, LEGISPOOL proposed a rotational system that ensures independent media representation at such events.
Toe disclosed that despite multiple efforts, the current LEGISPOOL leadership has been unable to secure a one-on-one meeting with the Senate leadership to address these pressing issues.
He also noted that the organization continues to grapple with basic operational challenges, including inadequate funding for stationery, internet services, and other necessary materials.
Toe reminded Senate President Pro Tempore Madam Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence of her own background in media, which he said should make her more aware of the difficulties facing Liberian journalists.
“We respectfully remind you of your previous commitment to support LEGISPOOL members, following our media engagement with you,” he said.
He also pointed out the lack of basic institutional identity tools such as official jackets, ID cards, and a branded vehicle. While some funds have been secured toward ID production, an additional US$300 is needed to complete the process. He added that with just over US$1,500, LEGISPOOL could also provide jackets for its members.
Despite the challenges, Toe expressed gratitude to the Senate leadership for supporting the Press Department in organizing the joint training session for reporters and staff.
He specifically praised Mr. Siafa Jallah, Deputy Director for Broadcast, for his professionalism, dedication, and courtesy — qualities he said reflect positively on the Senate.
On behalf of LEGISPOOL, Toe thanked the Press Department and the Office of the Pro Tempore for the opportunity and called for more engagements of this nature. He advocated for a renewed commitment to stronger collaboration between the Press Department and legislative journalists.
“The independent media is an indispensable pillar of democracy, and its role in highlighting the work of the Senate cannot be overstated,” he concluded.
Toe also encouraged LEGISPOOL members and other participants to apply the knowledge gained from the training to improve their reporting and uphold the highest standards of professionalism, independence, and integrity.
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