Monrovia– Presidential Press Secretary Atty. Kula Fofana has disclosed that the Government of Liberia (GoL) has expanded opportunities for media practitioners assigned to the Executive Mansion to travel with President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, enabling independent reporting and promoting free speech.
By J.H. Webster [email protected]
Speaking in commemoration of World Press Freedom Day 2026, Atty. Fofana highlighted ongoing efforts by the administration to strengthen press freedom and media engagement.
The global theme for this year’s celebration, “Shaping a World at Peace: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Security and Development,” she noted, aligns with Liberia’s national aspirations.
Delivering a special statement, Atty. Fofana emphasized that President Boakai has taken deliberate steps to foster closer relationships with journalists covering the Executive Mansion.
These efforts include direct engagements aimed at encouraging candid conversations and deeper mutual understanding.
“We have also expanded opportunities for media practitioners to travel with the President on both local and international engagements, ensuring firsthand reporting and accurate coverage of national activities on the global stage,” Atty. Fofana said.
She further revealed that the Presidential Media Dinner, launched last year, will now be institutionalized as an annual platform for constructive engagement between the government and the media.
According to the Presidential Press Secretary, the government acknowledges the indispensable role of a free press in a democratic society.
“Press freedom is not a privilege granted by the state, it is a fundamental right guaranteed by our Constitution and reinforced by our collective commitment to democratic governance,” Madam Fofana said.
She reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to protecting democratic values under President Boakai’s leadership.
She added: “Under the leadership of President Boakai, the administration remains resolute in upholding and expanding the democratic space within which the media operates.”
Atty. Fofana stressed that the government views the press as a partner in national development rather than an adversary, highlighting its role in informing the public, ensuring accountability and amplifying citizens’ voices.
She outlined key priorities, including strengthening protections for journalists. “First, strengthening legal and institutional protections for journalists. We will continue to support frameworks that safeguard freedom of expression and ensure that no journalist is intimidated, harassed, or silenced for doing their work within the bounds of the law,” Madam Fofana said.
Additionally, she emphasized the importance of professionalism in journalism: “We encourage continuous capacity-building and collaboration between government and media institutions to improve standards and public trust,” she said.
Atty. Fofana concluded by noting that the government remains committed to promoting responsible and ethical journalism, recognizing that press freedom thrives where accuracy, integrity and professionalism are upheld.
