Piah: “Gov’t Will Continue Challenging the Media”

Information Minister, Jerolinmek Matthew Piah, has said, government will continue to challenge the media to uphold professional standards.

Piah urged journalists, and media institutions to remain accountable for their reporting rather than expect immunity from criticism.

He spoke amid growing tensions between the government, and the media.
Piah: “The media is not covered by the blood of Jesus, because no institution is beyond scrutiny.”

He maintained how the government has no intention of shutting down media outlets, but will continue to question reporting it believes falls short of professional standards.

Piah however, reiterated that constructive criticism of the media should not be interpreted as an attack on press freedom.

“Holding the media accountable is consistent with promoting responsible journalism, and ensuring that information disseminated to the public is accurate and balanced.”

The exchange between the government and the Press Union has placed renewed attention on the importance of evidence-based public statements by state officials, especially when allegations involve respected professional institutions.

Piah’s remarks come in the wake of controversial allegations the Liberia National Police Inspector General, Gregory Coleman made against some media actors.

IG Coleman accused some members of the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) of accepting bribes from individuals linked to drug cartels to spread misinformation to the public.

Coleman’s accusations sparked widespread debate within the media community, with journalists, and press freedom advocates demanding that the government substantiate its claims, or withdraw the allegations.

The accusations have intensified concerns over the relationship between state authorities, and the independent media.

In response, PUL strongly rejected the allegations, and challenged government to present credible evidence supporting the claims.

PUL warned that if the government fails to provide proof of the accusations, it is prepared to pursue legal action against the state.