PHOTO: PUL President, Julius Kanubah
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PUL Denounces Arrest of Journalists by Traditional “Country Devil” in Margibi County
The Press Union of Liberia (PUL) expresses grave concern and unequivocal condemnation over the arrest and detention of four journalists by members of the traditional Poro society through what is commonly referred to as the “Country Devil,” in Margibi County.
The affected journalists – Elvis Gono of the Liberia Broadcasting System (ELBC), Willie Jomah of Classic FM, Ackollie Nanakpallah of Margibi–Liberia (online platform), and Ramsey Sengbe, a freelance reporter affiliated with the Daily Observer – were seized on Sunday, April 5, 2026, in Konotah Community, Borlola Township.
According to credible accounts, the journalists were in the area to provide media coverage of an inspection of an ongoing road rehabilitation project led by Representative Clarence Gahr of Margibi County District #5. The project site is situated near a traditional Poro shrine.
The PUL considers the actions taken against the journalists as a serious violation of press freedom and fundamental human rights, including the right to freedom of movement and the right to gather and disseminate information without fear of intimidation or coercion.
PUL President Julius Kanubah stated:
“The forceful seizure of journalists by members of a traditional society under any circumstances is unacceptable. This act constitutes a dangerous affront to press freedom and may be construed as a form of unlawful detention. Liberia’s democracy cannot thrive in an environment where journalists are subjected to such treatment while performing their professional duties.”
The Union acknowledges and respects the cultural significance of the Poro society in Liberia. However, it emphasizes that traditional practices must not supersede constitutional rights and national laws, particularly when they infringe upon the freedoms of individuals who are not voluntary participants.
Reports suggesting that the journalists may be subjected to involuntary initiation into the Poro society are especially troubling. Such actions would represent a gross violation of personal liberty, consent, and professional independence.
The PUL therefore calls on:
- The traditional authorities of Konotah Community to immediately and unconditionally release the detained journalists;
- Local government authorities and security agencies to intervene promptly to ensure the safety and freedom of the journalists;
- National stakeholders, including the Ministry of Local Government, Ministry of Information, and human rights institutions, to uphold and protect press freedom in Liberia.
The Union further warns that this incident sets a dangerous precedent that could embolden similar actions against journalists and undermine the country’s democratic progress.
The PUL remains actively engaged with relevant authorities and stakeholders to secure the safe and timely release of the journalists and will continue to monitor the situation closely.
About the PUL
The Press Union of Liberia (PUL) is the umbrella organization of journalists and media institutions in Liberia, committed to the defense of press freedom, the promotion of professional journalism, and the protection of journalists’ rights.
Signed:
Julius Kanubah
President/PUL