President George Weah yesterday sent a congratulatory message to the media on the observance of World Press Freedom Day. In a glossy greeting card bearing his portrait on the cover, the President reechoed the “tireless roles” the media have and continue to play in the country. “In this regard; it is my desire to form a stronger partnership with the media as we work towards strengthening our democracy and building a prosperous Liberia.”In his press freedom day message, he reaffirmed his government’s commitment to working with the media in creating a conducive environment for the press and freedom of expression. The World Press Freedom Day greeting card may well be the first of its kind for the Liberian media, though previous heads of state including former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf issued press releases and at times provided financial assistance for the Press Union to organize activities to observe the day. Meanwhile, a local media executive (name withheld) commenting on the President’s gesture has described President Weah’s card gesture as more of a publicity gimmick rather than a genuine attempt to repair his rather frosty relationship with the media.

Source: Daily Observer May 04, 2018 02:15 UTC