A Commissioner of the Independent National Commission on Human Rights in Liberia (INCHR), Atty. Patmillia Doe Paivey, has called on all parties involved in the electoral scuffle at the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) to unite and foster the overall agenda of the body for the growth and development.
Commissioner Paivey also called on parties of the disputed PUL election to adhere to and respect the Supreme Court’s ruling in the matter.
Delivering the keynote speech on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day, Atty. Paivey asserted that the PUL is now at a critical stage of the country’s democracy and, as such, should not allow personal differences to overshadow their obligation and duty to continuously inform and educate the public.
She added that disagreements can be prolonged but are not infinite and, as such, parties must continue to work together for the good of the public on grounds that the atmosphere is already politically charged.
The INCHR official appealed to journalist in Liberia that in the spirit of slain journalist Charles Gbeyon and many others who, according to her, will be troubled if Liberian journalists allow todays commemoration to go uncelebrated because of disagreements and political difference.
She noted that the day is set aside to call to action and remind duty bearers of commitment to greater protection for journalists and free press.
“I wonder if there’s anyone in this hall who does not feel tense and anxious about the pending elections, especially when we listen to radio or watch the social media space?,” Commissioner Paivey inquired.
She, however, said it is also almost seemingly unregulated, on the part of the audience and journalists that are seeking to change the way people understand the issue or situation for the purpose of changing action and expectations so that the outcomes are desirable to interest groups as freedom of expression comes with a greater responsibility.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Embassy in Monrovia has reminded Liberian journalists to stay true to ethics as they celebrate the World Press Freedom Day, highlighting the media’s essential contribution to Liberia’s democracy.
“We also remind journalists in Liberia and everywhere to stay true to ethics, accurate, clear, and fair reporting that seeks to inform the public should be the standard as professional integrity is the cornerstone of a journalist’s credibility,” the Embassy said.
The statement from the U.S. Embassy in Liberia added that without credibility, the media cannot contribute to a healthy democracy, but rather provoke distrust and the spread of misinformation.
The United Nations General Assembly declared May 3 as World Press Freedom Day in 2003 to raise awareness on the importance of freedom of the press and remind governments of their duty to respect and uphold the rights to freedom of expression enshrined in Article 19 of the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
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