By: P Uriah Suah
Nimba Correspondent
MONROVIA: Nimba County District #2 Representative Nya Flomo has called on journalists to avoid practices that foster division. Representative Flomo – a prominent community radio operator, further urged Liberian journalists, especially those operating in Nimba to promote responsible journalism to maintain unity in the county.
The Nimba County lawmaker who spoke on about recent media conduct criticized the trend of lengthy radio discussions where journalists discuss leaders for up to 45 minutes without providing them or their officials discussed a chance to respond to their accusers.
Rep. Flomo made these statements during the recent “Citizens Appreciation Program” organized by Representative Samuel Brown to acknowledge the support he received from his constituents in the 2023 elections. The event underscored the importance of community engagement and the positive impact of responsible media in promoting unity and development.
He warned that such practices could undermine the role of community radio journalism in promoting peace and reconciliation. Nya Flomo, a prominent figure who was a leader of of one of the community radio stations in Ganta radio recounted a recent incident where false information was broadcast on Voice of Gompa about a supposed $15,000 payment to Hon. Samuel Brown, which he knew to be untrue.
Flomo emphasized the dangers of spreading false information and its potential to undermine leadership and public trust.
Commenting on the issue of tribalism, Rep. Flomo praised the people of Nimba County District #1 for electing Hon. Samuel Brown as their representative, lauding further their ability to rise above tribal lines.
He urged this spirit against tribalism be mirrored across Nimba County and Liberia to ensure the election of the best candidates based on merit, not tribal affiliation.
Rep. Flomo also spoke on the recent conflict involving ArcelorMittal, criticizing the premature judgment made on the radio by some citizens without understanding issues behind-the-scenes of the Nimba legislative caucus.
The one time manager of a local community radio highlighted the importance of seeking dialogue and settling issues with ArcelorMittal, a key investor in Liberia, to ensure that the company continues to contributions to the country’s development.
According to him, in as much as the need exists for that company to do more for the host communities, the people of Liberia must encourage constructive dialogue and resolve their issues peaceably.
Rep. Flomo warned citizens against reverting to past conflicts fueled by misinformation and premature judgment, calling for unity and internal resolution of differences within the Nimba legislative caucus.
The Nimba District #2 lawmakers stressed that constructive dialogue and understanding are crucial in resolving conflicts in the area and maintaining a positive relationship with ArcelorMittal.
In conclusion, the lawmaker emphasized the need for responsible media practices characterized by unity among legislators to so as to better serve the people of Nimba and the Liberian people at large, highlighting that responsible journalism is essential in fostering unity and preventing the spread of misinformation that could lead to unnecessary conflict.
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