KAKATA, Margibi County (May 4, 2026) — The Association of Liberian Journalists in the Americas (ALJA) has commended the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) for organizing this year’s World Press Freedom Day commemoration, while also voicing strong opposition to reported efforts to amend Liberia’s Kamara A. Kamara Free Speech Law.
In a statement delivered Monday, ALJA praised the PUL for hosting what it described as a “meaningful ceremony” in Kakata, Margibi County, marking the global observance of World Press Freedom Day 2026. The event was held under the international theme, “Shaping a World at Peace: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Security, and Development,” and the national theme, “Advancing Press Freedom for Human Rights and Development.”
ALJA said the occasion provides an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made by journalists in Liberia and around the world, often under challenging and sometimes dangerous conditions.
The organization also used the platform to call on the Government of Liberia to continue fostering an enabling environment that ensures journalists can operate freely and safely, without fear of intimidation or reprisal.
However, the statement expressed “profound concern” over what it described as ongoing efforts within the Liberian House of Representatives to amend the Kamara A. Kamara Free Speech Law—a legislation widely regarded as a cornerstone of press freedom in the country.
According to ALJA, the law plays a critical role in safeguarding freedom of expression and protecting both journalists and ordinary citizens from censorship, intimidation, and the criminalization of speech.
“Any attempt to weaken or roll back these protections undermines the significant gains made in advancing press freedom, transparency, and accountability in Liberia,” the statement noted.
ALJA warned that the proposed amendment represents a “troubling step backward,” cautioning that it could erode public trust, stifle dissent, and create an environment where journalists may once again operate under fear.
The organization further argued that such actions would be inconsistent with Liberia’s constitutional guarantees and its international commitments to uphold democratic governance and freedom of expression.
ALJA is now urging members of the House of Representatives to reconsider any legislative actions that could dilute the intent and effectiveness of the free speech law. Instead, it called on lawmakers to strengthen protections for journalists and promote open dialogue.
Reaffirming its position, ALJA said it remains committed to advocating for a free, independent, and vibrant press in Liberia, and pledged solidarity with stakeholders working to preserve press freedom.
The statement was read by Peter Massaquoi, Chairman of ALJA’s External Relations Committee.
