EDITORIAL: The Ministry of Information’s Descent into Vulgarity is A Threat to Democracy

THE MINISTRY OF Information, Cultural Affairs, and Tourism (MICAT) is a crucial institution in any government, serving as the primary interface between the public and the state. Its role is to provide accurate information, promote government policies, and foster a sense of national unity. However, under the Joseph Boakai-led administration, MICAT has tragically abandoned its mandate, opting instead to engage in a pattern of vulgarity, derogation, and outright insults towards critics.

THERE ARE INCREASING recent spat between MICAT officials and renowned human rights advocates, politicians, activists and even clerics over government’s excesses, including but not limited to extravagant trips abroad, human rights conditions, amongst others. And more often than not, the MICAT ripostes portray a disturbing pattern of unprofessionalism. Rather than addressing the substance of critics’ assertions, MICAT’s responses have been marked by vitriol and personal attacks, a clear indication of the ministry’s willingness to sacrifice professionalism for the sake of defending the indefensible.

THIS BEHAVIOR IS not isolated, as MICAT has similarly responded to other critics, including Alexander B. Cummings Jr., the Political Leader of the Alternative National Congress (ANC). Cummings had simply expressed the frustration of many Liberians when he stated that they are yet to see any meaningful change since the inception of the Unity Party (UP) administration. Instead of engaging with the substance of his statement, MICAT officials chose to hurl insults, further demonstrating their intolerance for criticism.

WHEN THOSE TASKED with disseminating information resort to name-calling and character assassination, it undermines the very fabric of our democracy. The role of MICAT is not to bully or intimidate critics but to provide clarity and transparency, engaging in constructive dialogue that promotes the public’s understanding of government policies. By responding with venom and vitriol, MICAT creates a perception that the government is intolerant of criticism and unwilling to engage in open discourse.

THE UNITY PARTY (UP) government, under President Boakai’s leadership, should be concerned about the negative perceptions its behavior is creating. By allowing MICAT to operate as a platform for personal attacks, the government inadvertently sends a signal that it is intolerant of criticism and unwilling to engage in open discourse. This is a recipe for disaster, as it stifles free speech and undermines the principles of democratic governance.

THE PEOPLE OF Liberia deserve better. They deserve a government that listens, engages, and responds to criticism in a constructive manner. MICAT officials should be held accountable for their actions, and the government should take immediate steps to restore the ministry’s integrity and professionalism.

TO THE OFFICIALS of MICAT, we say this: your words have consequences. The venomous rhetoric you spew may score short-term political points, but it comes at a great cost to the nation. You are not only damaging the reputation of the ministry but also contributing to a culture of intolerance and hostility. We urge you to reflect on your actions and consider the long-term implications of your behavior.

TO PRESIDENT BOAKAI and the UP government, we say this: it is time to take control of the narrative. Rein in your officials, and ensure that MICAT serves its intended purpose – to inform, educate, and promote the government’s development agenda. The people of Liberia are watching, and they demand better.

THE CLOCK IS ticking. Will the Boakai government seize the opportunity to restore dignity and professionalism to MICAT, or will it continue down the path of vulgarity and intimidation? The choice is theirs alone.