The newly appointed spokesman of the Liberian Judiciary, Caesar Slapeh, has unveiled a comprehensive communication strategy aimed at promoting transparency, strengthening media relations, and ensuring professional coverage of judicial proceedings.
Speaking to journalists at the Temple of Justice, he underscored that his extensive background in the media and public affairs has prepared him for the task ahead. He recalled working for three major Liberian newspapers, contributing to several others, and previously serving as Director of Public Affairs at the Ministry of Posts & Telecommunications under Cllr. Cooper W. Kruah Sr., now Minister of Labor. “Court reporting is nothing strange to me,” he said. “I have covered the judiciary as an active member of the Association of Judicial Reporters.”
He emphasized that public relations is far more than issuing press releases; it requires strategic communication that builds trust and promotes the institution’s image. “It is easy to damage but very difficult to repair,” he noted. “The focus should be on consistently highlighting the positive rather than waiting for damage control.”
He pledged to work collaboratively with journalists to ensure the public receives accurate information, reminding reporters of the “ABC” of journalism: Accuracy, Balance, and Clarity. The spokesman cautioned lawyers about granting interviews on ongoing matters, referencing Rule 16 of the Lawyer’s Code of Moral & Professional Ethics, which discourages public commentary on pending or anticipated litigation.
He warned that ex parte statements to the media can mislead the public and undermine the Judiciary’s image. “A one-sided interview can easily result in misinformation,” he said. Noting persistent inaccuracies in court coverage, he announced plans to work with the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) to ensure all journalists covering the Judiciary are professionally accredited.
“The Temple of Justice is not an ordinary place for anyone with a cellphone to claim they are a journalist,” he stressed. He disclosed that many journalists continue to misinterpret court rulings, including confusing a Justice in Chambers’ decision with a full Supreme Court ruling.
To address this gap, the Judiciary will collaborate with the PUL to provide training for judicial reporters. As part of the effort, he said his office will sponsor the accreditation of 15 active court reporters within the next 60 days.
The spokesman also announced a strengthened press-monitoring system, which will track print, broadcast, online, and social media content related to the Judiciary. His office will closely follow high-profile cases, and final rulings will be posted promptly on the Judiciary’s website.
“The Judiciary website will soon become a reliable hub for news and information about our courts,” he assured. He reaffirmed that his office will remain proactive in informing the public and working constructively with the media to preserve the integrity of the justice system.
