PUL Moves to New Headquarters – Pundits Describe It ‘New Era’ for Journalists

MONROVIA – When the roll is called in recognition of national progressive forces that made the current multiparty culture in Liberia possible, credited for the relatively freer political winds blowing in the country, the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) would be amongst them. September 30 this year, the PUL will be celebrating its 61^st founding anniversary—a period of incessant advocacy for human rights, freedom and liberty, not only for journalists but also for all Liberians. Sadly, in a region where maturity and responsibility are measured by the individual or the institution’s infrastructural ownership and quality, it can be said the journalists’ umbrella organization has done poorly. In its three scores and one years of existence, the PUL had vacillated form one rented home to another without one of itself. Yet again, on yesterday, August 28, Liberian journalists dedicated a headquarters office from its decades-old cramped Clay Street office as they get closer to acquiring a place of their own. The Analyst’s anthony Jiffan reports.        

The Press Union of Liberia (PUL) has officially dedicated its new headquarters in Sinkor, ushering in what many pundits call a transformative chapter in the Union’s long and storied history.

The event, marked by deep reflection and optimism, was attended by top journalists, media stakeholders, civil society leaders, and government representatives including the Office of the President.

Speaking to a packed gathering of media practitioners and well-wishers, PUL President Julius Kanubah emphasized the significance of the occasion, paid tribute to those battling health challenges, and called for renewed unity and commitment among Liberian journalists.

“I stand here today, and I shall also implore all of us to keep in prayers our colleagues our family members who are suffering from various health conditions, as well as our colleagues who are experiencing distress,” Kanubah opened solemnly. “Our fellow colleagues, today is an important day in the history of the PUL.”

The Press Union’s move from its historic headquarters on Clay Street to the more modern 9th Street facility in Sinkor marks more than a change in physical space. It represents a culmination of collective aspiration one that began with years of advocacy, persistence, and resource mobilization.

The dream of establishing a fitting and functional hub for Liberia’s media community has finally become reality.

“Not only have we left our famous Clay Street headquarters, we are now on 9th Street,” Kanubah declared. “So, for all of us who have asked and hoped for this day, today is the day the Lord has made, and we will rejoice and be glad in it.”

Kanubah acknowledged the countless voices within the Union that had long advocated for a new and dignified home, expressing gratitude to all who contributed, both in cash and in kind, toward making the new headquarters possible.

“Permit me to mention several key contributors particularly the African Development Management Associates, who, along with their partners, made a significant financial contribution of US$20,000,” he revealed. “We also acknowledge the Liberia National Police, who have been instrumental in supporting this initiative logistically and morally.”

While Thursday’s event was a celebration, Kanubah was quick to emphasize that the journey does not end with the cutting of a ribbon. Instead, he framed the dedication as the start of a mission to ensure that the PUL secures permanent ownership of a headquarters, rather than relying on rental or temporary arrangements.

“This facility is not ours just like the one we left on Clay Street wasn’t ours. The task upon us today is not only to dedicate a new head office, but to implement our collective agenda of owning one,” he stressed. “In fact, we’ve made notable progress. We’re a step closer to gaining access to our union’s land on 14th Street.”

Kanubah provided updates on the union’s property acquisition efforts, specifically citing the long-contentious land on 14th Street as a key area of focus. His leadership has actively engaged with former and current PUL presidents to secure the Union’s long-term infrastructural future.

To lead the construction of the new headquarters of the Press Union of Liberia, President Kanubah has appointed a committee headed by Estelle Liberty Kemoh, former Director General of the Liberia Broadcasting System, Peter Quaqua, Titus Tokpah, Hannah Geterminah, Oretha Bundoo Seh, Vehzelee Sumo, Necus Andrews, Dorcas Gboerreh-Boe, Denise Dodoo and Dennise Nimpson.