Monrovia – The Center for Media Studies and Peacebuilding (CEMESP) has raised serious concerns over what it describes as escalating threats to press freedom in Liberia under President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s leadership.
In a statement released Friday to mark World Press Freedom Day, CEMESP accused the Boakai administration of fostering a climate of fear, impunity, and growing hostility toward independent media institutions.
The group warned that these conditions are undermining the ability of journalists to perform their watchdog role without harassment or reprisal.
“Despite the democratic promises made by the current government, several incidents have underscored the fragility of media freedom in Liberia,” the statement noted.
CEMESP cited the February 2025 interrogation of Hot Pepper publisher Philibert Browne by the National Security Agency (NSA) over a corruption report, the unresolved November 2024 assault of FrontPage Africa reporter Franklin Doloquee in Nimba County, and the September 2024 vandalism of the Spoon Network offices after critical reporting on the government.
The group criticized the Liberia National Police for failing to investigate these incidents, calling it a troubling sign of tolerance for violence against the press.
“These actions not only violate constitutional protections of press freedom, but also erode public trust in government transparency and accountability,” the organization said.
CEMESP, however, acknowledged some progress, including greater civil society involvement in media protection, renewed dialogue around media law reform, and the resilience of community radio and independent outlets.
The organization urged the Boakai administration to take immediate action to reverse the trend by protecting journalists, prosecuting attackers, and enacting pending legislation such as the Independent Media Commission Bill, the Community Radio Sustainability Bill, and the Data Protection Bill. It also called for reforms to transform the state-run Liberia Broadcasting System (LBS) into an independent public broadcaster.
“A free and independent press is essential in amplifying voices on environmental justice, holding polluters accountable, and educating the public on sustainable solutions,” the statement added.
