As Reporters Association Signs Book Of Condolence For Fallen Colleague
The President of the Reporters Association of Liberia (RAL), Cecelia G. Clarke is seeking for welfare and health insurance for Journalists in the country, thus taking the leadership of the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) and media institutions to task for journalists’ underpayment.
Speaking at the singing of the book of condolence of fallen journalist, Benjamin Ayaim who was fractionally known as Ebow Benjy, the RAL president said, “It is disheartening again to sign the book of condolence for an astute media personnel.”
She said: ”He established for himself a reputable and recognizable personality in the media, but could not make his way out of illness after many failed attempts to save his life.”
The RAL leader was sadden that help could not reach the late journalist during the time of his ailment, a press release from the Reporters Association of Liberia said in Monrovia on Monday.
“All we wanted was advanced medical treatment for our fallen colleague, Benjy, who could not single-handedly underwrite the cost of treatment owing to the underpayment of journalists that has little or no impact on journalists’ well-being and livelihood,” Mrs. Clarke said.
The RAL President further said, “Again, we are here to sign the book of condolence for a colleague who did not receive timely intervention and subsequently succumb to his complication.”
She added that every time, they, journalists identify and sign the many pages in expression of their sympathies to the bereaved, “I would like to remind that the poor welfare of journalists is already a normal and fate they have to endure or face.”
”Sorry to say, but it is ingrained and all seem like we cannot autocorrect this problem. However, we will keep advocating for the well-being and health of journalists who dedicate themselves to service for the public good,” the leader of Liberian Reporters said.
“It is with regret we lost a great radio presenter and we hope his death will bring us to a common ground in addressing the problem of journalists’ welfare” the RAL president said.
As staff of the institution spoke about the late radio announcer, their eyes were full with ears.
Like Cecelia Clarke, Journalist Oscar F. Mulbah could not hold back his tears from falling as he walked out with tears falling down his face.
Chris Sirleaf who spoke on behalf the Chief Executive Offer of Truth FM, said although he did not know the late journalist in person but was quick to say that in since he started his consultancy, he did not hear any bad news of Benjy.
The signing of the book of condolence of the late journalist witnessed his Wife, sister sharing tears as his bother and other family members fought to hold back their tears.