The recent leadership crisis within the PUL revealed just how shaky the foundations of our once-vibrant institution have become.
PHOTO: The Author
Peter Quaqua Former President, Press Union of Liberia
Every May 3rd, World Press Freedom Day invites nations and communities to reflect on the state of press freedom and the vital role independent journalism plays in democratic societies. In Liberia, where the struggle for free expression has been both storied and hard-won, this year’s theme, “Sustaining Independent Journalism in the Digital Age,” carries deep significance. It arrives amid an internal reckoning within the Liberian media, underscored by a prolonged election dispute in the Press Union of Liberia (PUL)—a situation that has exposed the fragility of the very principles we aim to uphold.
This theme compels us to confront the challenges and embrace the possibilities presented by digital transformation. But before we can sustain independent journalism, we must do something even more urgent: rebuild trust and strengthen the internal systems that support press freedom.
Upholding the Rule of Law
The recent leadership crisis within the PUL revealed just how shaky the foundations of our once-vibrant institution have become. What should have been a routine democratic process devolved into a legal impasse and organizational paralysis. For over two years, the PUL—the country’s principal media body—was largely inactive, unable to speak with one voice, advocate effectively for journalists, or defend press freedom.
Today, the Union is slowly finding its footing. Yet, the aftermath of prolonged litigation has left lingering mistrust. This is precisely why honest attempts were made to seek an out-of-court resolution. Court decisions must be respected, especially by those who claim to champion the rule of law. For the record, the PUL has always aligned itself with legality. Members of the Interim Committee—comprising former officials and media elders—remain grateful to the Court in Gbarnga for the opportunity to help restore the Union, despite the Committee itself being compelled to respond to legal orders. Thankfully, that chapter is now behind us.
Still, let’s be clear: after such a bitterly contested process, reconciliation will take time. The court may resolve legal disputes, but it cannot mend broken trust. As the guardian of press freedom and professional solidarity, the PUL’s leadership must now focus on healing divisions and reforming the systems that allowed this crisis to unfold.
Because when governance fails, institutions lose legitimacy. And when that happens, the very notion of a free press begins to crumble.
Why Internal Systems Matter
In this digital era—defined by rapid information flows, coordinated disinformation, and growing threats to journalists—strong internal systems are not optional. They are essential. Sustaining independent journalism depends not just on editorial freedom or technological innovation, but on sound governance frameworks that promote accountability, inclusion, and transparency.
The PUL must lead by example. It must move beyond being a symbolic defender of press freedom to becoming a truly functional, responsive, and forward-looking organization. That means reimagining how the Union operates—not just who leads it.
Key priorities that should be considered include:
- Transparent electoral processes, with clear rules and impartial oversight;
- Conflict resolution mechanisms to manage internal disputes before they escalate;
- Stronger financial and administrative controls to protect integrity and sustainability;
- Inclusive membership structures that reflect the diversity of today’s media, especially digital, community-based, and freelance journalists;
- Strategic investments in digital safety, legal defense, and health support for journalists working under increasingly hostile conditions.
- A strong self-regulatory regime to hold journalists accountable for their errors.
Meeting the Challenges of the Digital Era
Independent journalism now exists in a world where anyone with a smartphone can publish information, and where misinformation often spreads faster than facts. Journalists must not only adapt their storytelling techniques; they must also safeguard their credibility, their platforms, and their security in the digital space.
The digital age gives journalists powerful tools. But without strong internal structures, those tools can become weapons – used to polarize rather than to inform.
The PUL must rise to this occasion. It must become a hub for digital training, ethical journalism, and media innovation, not just a gatekeeper for legacy institutions. It must also advocate for media literacy, data protection, cybersecurity, and digital rights. Encouragingly, the Acting Chairman of the Liberia Telecommunications Authority, Mr. Abdullah Kamara, offered to be a valuable partner in these efforts during this year’s Press Freedom Day event.
Reason to be proud
At its core, sustaining independent journalism is about trust—trust in facts, in institutions, and in each other. The PUL cannot defend democracy if it does not reflect democratic values in its governance.
We have reason to be proud. The PUL has played a critical role in the country’s journey toward peace and democracy. From civil society actors to student leaders, from politicians to ordinary citizens, many can attest to the PUL’s pivotal contributions, especially when speaking truth to power came at great risk. We cannot afford to bury that legacy.
Let this World Press Freedom Day be more than symbolic. Let it mark the start of a new chapter—one in which internal reform drives external credibility. One in which the PUL becomes not just restored, but renewed to meet the challenges of today. Now is the time to fix what has been broken—not just for the sake of journalists, but for the public that depends on them.
Going Forward
Journalists across Liberia, regardless of age, affiliation, or platform, must come together to reclaim the soul of our profession. This is not a call for uniformity, but for shared purpose. Independent journalism will only thrive when the institutions that protect it are resilient, modernized, and inclusive.
We must seize this opportunity to upgrade our systems, empower ethical leadership, and rebuild solidarity. Because in a country flooded with noise, a credible, independent press remains our best hope for truth. And in a Union restored by trust and strengthened by reform, journalists will find not only protection, but will find purpose.
Because the fight for press freedom begins at home. And if we get our house in order, we will be better equipped to defend every other freedom that flows from it.
Whether you are a veteran journalist or just starting, a manager or editor, based in the city or rural areas, the responsibility is yours too. Rebuilding the PUL is not someone else’s job; it’s everyone’s. Not just those in leadership. I agree with the Minister of Information when he questioned the level of commitment of media managers and editors to events of the Union. You all have a vital role to play in the Union’s survival. It is time to get involved.
So, let this World Press Freedom Day be a turning point. Let us recommit to the values that first drew us to journalism: courage, integrity, and service.
In solidarity,
Peter Quaqua Former President, Press Union of Liberia