The Government of Liberia has assured the public of its commitment to freedom of the press. Addressing the Ministry of Information’s regular press briefing on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, Deputy Minister for Press, Daniel O. Sando, dismissed recent claims of declining press freedom, terming the information as inaccurate and misleading.
According to him, the Joseph Nyuma Boakai administration remains fully committed to upholding constitutional freedoms while advancing key national development initiatives. Sando disclosed that concerns raised by the leadership of the Press Union of Liberia (PUL), which alleged that press freedom in the country is under threat, are totally false, adding that the government remains committed to upholding freedom of the press in Liberia.
The Deputy Information Minister emphasized that no media institution has been shut down and no journalist has been detained or prosecuted under the current administration, contrary to claims by the Union.
“The democratic space in Liberia remains open and vibrant,” he stated, noting that the media continues to operate freely without interference. Sando said attempts to link press freedom concerns to the recent removal of former Speaker Fonati Koffa are unfounded and far from reality.
He also clarified that such decisions fall strictly within the constitutional authority of members of the Legislature and should not be misconstrued as an attack on free speech.
According to him, the Legislature has the exclusive mandate to elect or remove its leadership through established procedures, and those processes must be respected as part of democratic governance.
He also urged journalists and media institutions to maintain professional standards and ensure accuracy in their coverage. Sando stressed that while the government respects media independence, it also expects responsible journalism that contributes positively to national development and public trust.
