By Desmond Gbeleh Wion
Monrovia, Liberia – Liberian journalists are facing increasing hardship, dealing with financial struggles, physical attacks, and a lack of institutional support. Many are left vulnerable when crises strike, with little to no assistance available to help them navigate these challenges.
A Journalist in Need of Urgent Support
Veteran journalist Alex Yormah, a dedicated reporter for The Inquirer Newspaper and a long-time member of the Press Union of Liberia (PUL), is now fighting for his life. Yormah, who has built a reputation for credibility and accountability in his reporting, recently suffered a stroke and other severe health complications. He is in urgent need of financial support to cover his medical bills, which amount to over US$1,500.
Speaking from his residence in Sinkor during an online interview, Yormah appealed to the public for assistance. His deteriorating health highlights the broader issue of journalists struggling without proper welfare or medical support. Many have lost their lives under similar circumstances, like Samuel Doe, a freelance journalist whose legs were amputated before he eventually passed away due to a lack of adequate care. The growing number of such cases exposes the harsh reality that Liberian media workers face—low wages, no health insurance, and no safety nets when emergencies arise.
Facing Attacks and Threats on the Job
Beyond health concerns, journalists in Liberia are frequently targeted for their work. Many have suffered physical assaults, threats, and even arbitrary arrests while covering sensitive issues.
Ahead of elections and other politically charged events, media professionals have been warned to take extra precautions. During a forum organized by the Center for Media Studies & Peace-building (CEMESP) in June 2023, panelists urged journalists to adopt safety measures amid rising attacks. Reports show that in recent years, journalists have been beaten, harassed, or detained by security forces simply for doing their jobs. Such acts of intimidation not only violate press freedom but also create a chilling effect, discouraging reporters from holding power to account.
PUL’s Response and the Fight for Journalists’ Welfare
The Press Union of Liberia (PUL) and international bodies like the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) have repeatedly condemned these abuses. The newly elected PUL leadership, under Julius Kanubah, has set up a specialized Welfare Committee to advocate for better conditions for journalists.
Law enforcement agencies have been implicated in many attacks against journalists, from tear-gassing and beatings to unlawful detentions. However, little action has been taken to hold perpetrators accountable. Without urgent reforms, the living and working conditions of Liberian journalists will continue to deteriorate.
A Call for Action
As Liberia works to strengthen its democracy, the treatment of journalists remains a key test of the country’s commitment to press freedom and human rights. The struggles of journalists like Alex Yormah are not isolated cases; they reflect the daily challenges faced by media professionals across the country, especially those in rural areas. Many journalists outside Monrovia face even greater difficulties, including poor road networks that prevent them from seeking justice when their rights are violated.
Yormah’s family and the larger media community are calling on national stakeholders and international partners to provide financial assistance to ensure he receives the urgent medical care he needs. Journalists play a crucial role as the watchdogs of democracy, and their welfare should not be ignored.
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