Liberia: Team Unity Condemns ‘Impostors’ Attempting to Hijack Leadership of the Press Union of Liberia (PUL)

Monrovia, Liberia – December 11, 2024 – Team Unity of the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) has issued a stern condemnation against individuals posing as legitimate leaders of the Union and releasing misleading statements under the Union’s name. These individuals, who are not elected leaders, are attempting to undermine the organization’s operations and create confusion within the media community.

In a statement released to the public, Team Unity emphasized that the actions of these impostors represent a dangerous recurrence of the historical pattern of illegal power grabs that have plagued many African nations. The attempt to manipulate the elections of the Press Union of Liberia mirrors tactics seen in past political coups across the continent, where forces outside the democratic process seek to seize power unlawfully.

Team Unity has expressed deep concern over the implications of such actions, which not only threaten the integrity of the Press Union but also jeopardize the broader efforts to promote unity and democracy in Liberia’s media sector. The group has called for the immediate cessation of these fraudulent activities and reaffirmed its commitment to holding an inclusive, fair, and transparent election process within the Union.

“We are witnessing an unfortunate attempt by one “Julius Kanubah” and some individuals to disrupt the democratic processes of the Press Union of Liberia. Their actions, which mimic the destructive tactics of coups across the continent, are not only illegal but harmful to the principles of fairness, transparency, and unity that we stand for,” said Mae Azango of Team Unity. “We will not allow these impostors to succeed in their efforts to hijack the leadership of the PUL. We remain focused on organizing a legitimate, all-inclusive election that respects the voices of all members.”

Team Unity reiterated its call for solidarity among members of the Press Union and urged all stakeholders to remain vigilant and united in the face of divisive tactics. The group also expressed confidence that the Union’s members would steadfastly uphold democratic principles and the rule of law, while rejecting any anti-democratic elements attempting to seize control of the Union, at the same time posing as advocates of democracy.

As the Press Union of Liberia remains fracture in court, Team Unity assured the public that it will continue to advocate for a leadership transition that reflects the collective will of the entire Press Union of Liberia, ensuring that the Union’s future is shaped by those who are truly committed to the progress of Liberia’s media landscape and not people who goals are rooted in pecuniary gains.