House Commends ALJA, Recommits To Press Freedom
By Fiona Benson Kollie
Lawmakers on Capitol Hill have commended members of the Association of Liberian Journalists in the Americas (ALJA) on the successful holding of its 14th National Convention.
The House also reaffirmed the importance of a free, independent, and responsible media to strengthen democratic governance and public trust.
The Director of Press and Public Affairs of the House, Robert Benjamin Haynes delivered the commendation during remarks at the convention.
The event was held in Providence, Rhode Island, from October 15–18, under the theme: “Strengthening the Rule of Law and Public Trust in Liberia: The Role of the Media.”
Haynes praised ALJA for sustaining a professional platform that converged Liberian journalists across the Americas and in Liberia to discuss press freedom, accountability, good governance, and national development.
He described the convention’s theme as “timely, and significant.”
He also emphasized the need for public trust in democratic institutions, which Haynes said, depends on the fair application of the law, transparency in government operations, responsible management of public resources, and accountability among public officials.
He highlighted House Speaker Koon’s longstanding recognition of the media as an indispensable partner in democratic governance.
“A free press is not an enemy of government; it is an essential partner in ensuring that government remains accountable to the people.”
Haynes underscored the responsibility of journalists to inform citizens, investigate matters of public interest, scrutinize government actions, and report without fear or intimidation.
He urged media practitioners to uphold professional ethics, verify information before publication, distinguish facts from opinions, and resist sensationalism.
He commended ALJA for its contribution to professional journalism, and democratic discourse since its founding in 1998, particularly its efforts to promote press freedom, professional development, and good governance.
