The Management of OK FM 99.5 strongly condemns the reported assault and intimidation of our Nimba County Correspondent Journalist Franklin Doloquee – a shameful and dangerous act exhibited by Information Minister Jerolinmek Piah.
According to accounts from Mr. Doloquee and eyewitnesses, Liberiaβs Information Minister Mr.
Jerolinmek Piah forcibly seized the reporterβs phone after demanding that he delete photos and videos taken during a press engagement.
When the reporter declined, the Minister allegedly proceeded to personally delete several images and is said to still be in possession of the journalistβs phone.
Audio recordings of the encounter which are in the possession of OK FM corroborate these troubling allegations.
OK FM views this incident as a blatant violation of press freedom, a direct attack on the sacred role of journalists, and a dangerous abuse of public office. No official, regardless of rank, has the right to assault, intimidate, or confiscate the property of members of the press who are lawfully carrying out their duties.
The Management of FM calls on President Joseph Boakai, the Ministry of Justice, the Liberia National Police to take swift action in ensuring accountability for this unacceptable conduct by a senior government official. The immediate return of the reporterβs phone and an impartial investigation into the matter must prioritized.
We further urge the Press Union of Liberia and our international partners who have heavily invested in press freedom to as well condemn the action of Minister Piah.
OK FM stands in solidarity with our Nimba County Correspondent and remains committed to fearless, independent and factual reporting in the service of the Liberian people and no amount of intimidation from Minister Piah and his likes will deter us.
