MONROVIA – Liberia’s Independence Anniversary continues providing a platform for respected national voices to examine the country’s democratic journey while encouraging greater civic responsibility. Veteran journalist and former government communications official Gabriel I.H. Williams used the occasion to blend reflections on Liberia’s progress with an appeal for national unity, responsible journalism, and renewed investment in education. His remarks underscore the enduring influence of the media in preserving democratic governance and national cohesion while reminding both public officials and journalists that freedom carries corresponding responsibilities. Coming from a figure whose career spans some of Liberia’s most turbulent political periods, the message carries historical perspective beyond ceremonial celebration. He posits that democracy flourishes where responsible leadership and responsible journalism coexist. THE ANALYST GEORGE G. FLOMO reports.
Former Minister for Press and Public Affairs at the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism (MICAT) and former Acting President of the Press Union of Liberia (PUL), Gabriel I.H. Williams has called on Liberians to rise above political and social differences, embrace responsible journalism, and work collectively toward national development as the country commemorates its 179th Independence Anniversary.
Speaking Thursday during the Ministry of Information’s regular press briefing, where he appeared as a special guest, Williams reflected on Liberia’s democratic journey, the sacrifices of journalists, and the country’s development prospects while conveying Independence greetings from Liberians residing in Sacramento, California.
Williams thanked Deputy Information Minister for Press and Public Affairs Daniel O. Sando and the ministry’s leadership for inviting him to participate in the briefing, describing the occasion as timely during the country’s Independence celebrations.
He also praised the ongoing renovation of the Ministry of Information headquarters, describing the refurbishment as one of the most encouraging developments he observed upon returning to Monrovia after spending time abroad.
The veteran journalist further commended the naming of the ministry’s conference room in honor of the late Charles Gbanyon, recalling the sacrifices made by journalists during Liberia’s turbulent years.
Honoring Fallen Journalists
Williams emotionally recounted seeing Gbanyon being taken away in a Liberia Broadcasting System (LBS) vehicle following the aftermath of the failed 1985 coup attempt before later learning that he had been killed.
According to him, the tragedy remains a painful reminder of the dangers journalists have historically faced while carrying out their professional responsibilities.
“We pay homage to him and all journalists who paid the ultimate price in the service of this country,” Williams said, urging today’s media practitioners to remember those sacrifices while upholding the highest standards of journalism.
Turning to the country’s Independence celebration, Williams congratulated President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, the Government, and the Liberian people on the nation’s 179th Independence Anniversary.
He reminded Liberians that theirs was Africa’s first independent republic at a time when nearly the entire continent remained under colonial domination.
“Liberia was a free country while almost all of Africa was under colonial subjugation,” he observed, adding that despite continuing national challenges, “progress is steady.”
Recognizing National Progress
Williams acknowledged existing difficulties but argued that Liberia has nevertheless made notable progress, particularly in expanding electricity and improving road infrastructure.
Drawing from personal observations during his journey from Roberts International Airport into Monrovia, he pointed to visible improvements in electricity access and road conditions.
He urged Liberians not to allow negative narratives alone to define the country’s image, insisting that genuine progress should also receive public recognition.
“We have to work beyond our differences and hold together for the common good of our country,” he emphasized.
Speaking on behalf of Liberians living in Sacramento, California, Williams conveyed greetings from members of the Association of Citizens and Friends of Liberia, one of the city’s prominent Liberian organizations.
He disclosed that the association had intended presenting President Boakai with a proposal to help rebuild the Monrovia Consolidated School System (MCSS) during the President’s recent visit but was unable to do so.
Education And Press Freedom
A graduate of the MCSS himself, Williams encouraged the government to revive educational partnerships with California institutions that previously assisted in training Liberian school administrators and principals.
He recalled that an interview he granted to National Public Radio (NPR) during the early 1990s eventually resulted in approximately 14,000 textbooks being donated by California’s San Juan Unified School District to Liberia.
Those books were initially distributed to the MCSS before reaching public schools across the country through partnerships involving Firestone Liberia and private shipping companies.
Williams urged journalists to maintain professionalism by reporting both positive and negative developments while ensuring that every report is thoroughly verified.
“Check your facts. Let us work first and foremost for our country,” he advised.
Reflecting on his tenure at the Press Union of Liberia, Williams recounted efforts to reunify the organization during the civil conflict and restore constitutional governance through democratic elections.
He also appealed to government officials and political leaders to respect press freedom, warning that intimidation of journalists damages both democratic governance and Liberia’s international reputation.
“The media is the fourth estate,” he stressed. “We hold tremendous responsibility, but government leaders must also respect their boundaries.”
Williams concluded by calling on journalists, public officials, and citizens alike to work together in safeguarding Liberia’s peace, democracy, and development.
“As we commemorate our Independence, let us remain committed to the peace, tranquility, and progress of Liberia,” he said. “We all share a greater responsibility to build and protect our country.”