28/08/2025
Speech at the Official Opening of the New Office of the Press Union of Liberia (PUL)
Delivered by:
Atty. Kula Bonah Nyei Fofana
Presidential Press Secretary
August 28, 2025
Warner Avenue, 9th Street, Sinkor
Mr. President and Members of the Press Union of Liberia,
Distinguished media executives and practitioners,
Representatives of civil society,
Ladies and gentlemen:
It is with great honor and deep appreciation that I bring you warm greetings on behalf of the President of the Republic of Liberia, His Excellency Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., and the Office of the President. Allow me to thank the leadership of the Press Union of Liberia for extending this invitation and for organizing today’s occasion—a landmark in the history of Liberian journalism.
The dedication of this new space is not merely the opening of an office building. It represents the strengthening of an institution that has, for decades, stood as a custodian of truth, accountability, and the principles of democracy. This new home of the PUL is a symbol of resilience, growth, and the collective commitment to building a Liberia where the freedom of the press is respected, and the voices of journalists are protected.
The media is, and has always been, an indispensable pillar of Liberia’s socio-economic and political journey. Through moments of triumph and periods of turbulence, Liberian journalists have borne the responsibility of informing the public, holding power to account, amplifying the voices of the marginalized, and shaping national dialogue.
In this role, the Press Union of Liberia has consistently reminded us that democracy cannot thrive without a free and vibrant press. But just as importantly, freedom of the press must be balanced with ethical responsibility, truth-telling, and professional conduct.
President Boakai’s administration remains committed to creating a society where journalists are not only free to report without fear but are also supported in their professional development and welfare. We recognize that the quality of journalism is directly linked to the strength of our democracy.
This is why we applaud the PUL’s ongoing efforts in capacity building, ethical advocacy, and its dedication to safeguarding journalists’ rights. The new office we inaugurate today will serve as a hub for these essential functions—a place where knowledge, advocacy, and solidarity among journalists will flourish.
Let me also emphasize that the promotion of press freedom and ethical journalism is a shared responsibility. It requires collaboration between the media, government, civil society, and the public at large. The President strongly believes that when these partnerships are nurtured, Liberia’s democratic fabric becomes stronger, more inclusive, and more accountable to its people.
As we celebrate this milestone, let us remember that a free press is not an end in itself—it is a means to a greater end: a more informed, empowered, and united people.
On behalf of the President and the Government of Liberia, I congratulate the Press Union of Liberia on this historic achievement and reaffirm our collective commitment to protecting and advancing the values of press freedom, free speech, and democratic governance.
May this new home inspire even greater courage, professionalism, and excellence in Liberian journalism.
Thank you, and congratulations once again.
