By Peter Quaqua| Former President of PUL/WAJA
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 local theme, “Sustaining Independent Journalism in the Digital Age,” carries deep significance. It comes amid an internal reckoning within the Liberian media, underscored by a prolonged election dispute within the Press Union of Liberia (PUL)—a situation that has exposed the fragility of the very principles we strive 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 first 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 turned 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, pushing to reoccupy the space it vacated. Yet the aftermath of the prolonged litigation has left lingering mistrust. This is precisely why sincere efforts 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. Whether it’s a SLAPP suit against a journalist or a genuine legal recourse by an aggrieved citizen, the media must consistently uphold the principles of law and order. The Union’s recent experiences, though avoidable, reflect its adherence to these values.
Interestingly, even the erstwhile Interim Committee, comprising former officials and media elders, was caught in the crossfire. Despite disagreements within the Union over the court’s ruling, the Committee was honored to be entrusted by the Circuit Court in Gbarnga to help restore our Union. Thankfully, that chapter is now behind us, following the ruling of the Civil Law Court in Monrovia.
Still, let’s be clear: after such a bitterly contested process, rebuilding trust will take time. Courts may resolve legal disputes, but they cannot mend broken relationships. As the guardian of press freedom and professional solidarity, the PUL’s leadership must now focus on healing, and more importantly, on reforming the systems that allowed the crisis to unfold in the first place.
When governance fails, institutions lose legitimacy. And when that happens, the very foundation 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 only on editorial freedom or technological innovation, but also on sound governance that promotes accountability, inclusion, and transparency.
The PUL must lead by example. It must evolve beyond being a symbolic defender of press freedom and become a truly functional, responsive, and forward-looking institution. That means reimagining how the Union operates—not just who leads it.
Let me offer a few suggestions as the Union undertakes its much-needed transformation:
• Reform the electoral system, including a rigorous membership registration process with clear rules and transparent oversight;
• Embrace inclusive membership structures that reflect the diversity of today’s media, especially digital, community-based, and freelance journalists;
• Establish a conflict resolution mechanism to address internal disputes before they escalate;
• Strengthen financial and administrative controls to ensure integrity and sustainability;
• Invest strategically in digital safety, legal defense, and health support for journalists working under increasingly hostile conditions;
• And crucially, institute 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 the truth. Journalists must not only adapt their storytelling techniques; they must also safeguard their credibility, platforms, and security in the digital space.
The digital age gives journalists powerful tools. But without strong internal structures, those tools can be misused—to polarize, mislead, or distract—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. Encouragingly, the Acting Chairman of the Liberia Telecommunications Authority, Mr. Abdullah Kamara, pledged support during this year’s Press Freedom Day event—a welcome gesture.
A Reason to Be Proud
At its core, sustaining independent journalism is about trust—in facts, in institutions, and in each other. The PUL cannot defend democracy if it does not reflect democratic values in its own governance.
The PUL has played a pivotal role in Liberia’s journey toward peace and democracy. We have reason to be proud. From civil society leaders to student activists, from politicians to everyday citizens, many can attest to the PUL’s contributions—especially when speaking truth to power carried great risk. We cannot afford to bury that legacy.
Let this World Press Freedom Day be more than symbolic. Let it mark the beginning of a new chapter – one in which internal reform drives external credibility, and in which the PUL becomes not only restored but renewed to meet today’s challenges.
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, inclusive, and modernized.
We must seize this moment to upgrade our systems, enable ethical leadership, and rebuild solidarity. In a country flooded with hate and 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—they will find purpose.
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 out, 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, who rightly questioned the conspicuous absence of media managers and editors at the Press Freedom Day event. In times like these, the Union needs the attention, commitment, and contribution of all senior members of the press.
It’s time to get involved. Let us recommit to the values that first drew us to journalism: courage, integrity, and service.
God bless the PUL!.
