Prospects for Journalists Promising But Require Unity -Former PUL Prexy Quaqua Reflects On Media Space
former President of the Press Union of Liberia, Peter Quaqua has lamented increasing waves of threats to the safety of journalists in Liberia, recounting reports of harassment, intimidation, and violence against reporters—particularly those investigating corruption and governance issues.
He said though the situation underscores the urgent need for stronger legal protections and solidarity among media professionals, “the prospects are promising but require a united effort”.
Making a special statement at the 60th Anniversary Celebrations and Induction of the newly elected officers of the Press Union of Liberia, he called on colleagues to prioritize continuous professional development for journalists, including ethical training and digital literacy, to maintain the integrity of our work.
Quaqua, who is also president of the West African Journalists Association (WAJA), told journalists at the occasion: “As we look to the future, the prospects are promising but require a united effort.”
“We want to appeal to every member of the Press Union of Liberia to strengthen our solidarity. At 60 years old, the PUL is only as strong as the collective will of its members,” he said, adding: “We must stand together—push owners, editors, reporters, and media advocates—to continue defending press freedom and the public’s right to information. Our strength lies not in competition but in collaboration, mutual support and respect.”
He urged colleagues to commit themselves to “the principles that have sustained us through decades of trials. Let us, together forge ahead, united in purpose and undeterred by the challenges that may arise.”
He recalled that the disagreement over the November 19, 2022 disputed elections is emblematic of the Union’s structural and internal weaknesses.
“We have spent a better part of our existence confronting external issues; we must now devote some time to fixing our in-house issues and policies,” Quaqua said. “Certainly, if our defenses are weak, we will get easily penetrated by the enemy.”
As a result of the disputed elections, an Interim Committee of seven former leaders and four media elders was mandated by the 9th Judicial Circuit Court in Gbarnga, Bong County on 18 June 2024, to clean up the membership roster and rerun the elections.
The Committee members are, James Kaizolu, Elizabeth Hoff, Malcolm Joseph, Frank Sainworla, Winston Monboe, Jacob Parley and Peter Quaqua. The four media elders are, Prof. Weade Kobbah-Boleyof the University of Liberia, Peter Kahler, formally of the Liberia News Agency, Helen Nah-Sammie of the Women Voices Newspaper, and Teah Doegmah, Chairman/ ALICOR Board of Directors.
According to him, long before the Court’s mandate, former leaders of the Union had been engaged in consultations with the parties for the restoration of our Union and that said consultations started on November 29, 2023.
He also mentioned other colleagues who were involved in the mediation efforts, including Mr. James C. Dennis, Emmanuel Abalo, Rev. Suah Deddeh, Melissa Chea-Anna and Dr. Samuel Wai Johnson, all residing in the United States.
Quaqua asserted that the inaugural night of PUL’s new leadership marked the final leg of the negotiators’ assignment.
“We have until October 18 to report back to the Court in Gbarnga about the execution of the Judge’s mandate,” he said. “We wish to inform audience that Interim Committee has so far received three court documents, including a summons from the Sheriff of the Civil Law Court. Not one of those court precepts enjoined the Committee from proceeding.
“The narrative about the illegality of our implementation of the Court’s mandate is unfortunately not true. We are here tonight because the Court did not stop us. It should be said that members of the Interim Committee are all noted members of this community and will never disrespect a court order nor undermine the rule of law. Our interest has always been in the restoration of the Union, not in any particular candidate.”
He admonished parties against having the court rule in the matter because court judgments are meant to be enforced.
He continued: “Our friends did not listen. The ruling of the court is not what we wanted in our negotiations, but that is what we got after all. The Committee therefore had no other option, but to implement the court’s mandate. On 21 September 2024, we conducted the rerun election with all four candidates who participated in the 2022 Gbarnga elections on the ballot. Those elected and expected to be inducted tonight are Julius Kanubah, President; Beatrice Sieh, Vice President; Akoi Baysah, Secretary-General and Julius Konton, Assistant Secretary-General.”
60th Anniversary Remarks
Quaqua also made comments relative to the celebration of 60th Anniversary of the PUL, reflecting that sixty years ago, the Union was founded by a handful of journalists in the wake of a repressive action by duty bearers.
He recalled how Journalist Stanton Peabody wrote an article critical of the Legislature, which landed him in jail. The chilling effects of that action by the lawmakers, mobilized his colleagues into solidarity action sixty years ago, and since then journalists have been demonstrating resilience, progress and unwavering commitment to press freedom and the principles of free speech.
“Since its founding in 1964, the PUL has been at the forefront of advocating for the rights of journalists, promoting ethical and ensuring that the voice of the Liberian people is heard,” he added. “Throughout our history, we have faced challenges. Tonight, we want to honor the countless individuals who have contributed to our success.”
Quaqua said from the founding fathers to the current generation of members of the Union, each person has played a vital role in shaping the organization, their dedication and passion making Liberian journalist what they are today.
“While we honor our progress, we are reminded of the internal and external challenges that persist,” the veteran journalist continued. “Economic constraints and limited financial sustainability, have forced some to compromise on journalistic integrity. The rise of disinformation and the erosion of trust in the media are also hurdles we must overcome.”