—- Threatens Legal Action Over Alleged Defamation
IPNEWS: Bomi County Senator Edwin Melvin Snowe has launched a scathing criticism against the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs, and Tourism (MICAT), accusing the government institution of engaging in an increasing pattern of public attacks against prominent Liberians.
Speaking during a heated plenary session at the Capitol on Thursday, Senator Snowe condemned what he described as the Ministry’s “unbecoming rhetoric” issued through official government platforms. He warned that if such conduct persists, it could normalize a culture of insults and public disrespect in Liberia’s political and civic discourse.
“The Ministry of Information is supposed to be the face of national communication and unity,” Senator Snowe asserted. “But what we’re witnessing is a government institution using state resources and platforms to insult and malign respected national figures. This is unacceptable and must stop.”
Snowe emphasized that MICAT’s role is to inform the public accurately, promote Liberia’s image, and foster national cohesion not to serve as a platform for personal or political vendettas. He cautioned that the Ministry’s actions could further erode public trust in government communication and degrade the tone of national dialogue.
The Bomi County lawmaker further called on the Ministry to immediately desist from using its official channels to attack leaders and instead focus on its constitutional mandate.
In a related development, Senator Snowe revealed his intention to pursue legal action against the Ministry if the Liberian Senate fails to address what he termed as personal attacks on his character by MICAT. He claimed the Ministry had falsely accused him of destabilizing the country a serious allegation he says has damaged his international reputation.
“If the Senate does not act, I will be left with no option but to seek redress through the courts,” Snowe warned. “These baseless allegations have not only tarnished my name locally but have also had adverse effects on my standing with international partners.”
The Senator’s remarks have sparked widespread reactions within political circles, with some lawmakers backing his concerns about the growing use of official government platforms for political mudslinging.
Efforts to reach officials at MICAT for a response to Senator Snowe’s allegations proved futile up to press time.
As tensions rise between the legislature and the Ministry, observers are calling for a return to civility and professionalism in government communications, warning that further escalation could undermine public confidence and Liberia’s democratic image. By: Andrew B Weah, 0770637216/0886429103, andrewbweah@gmail.com
