MONROVIA, December 15 (LINA) – Internal Affairs Minister Morris Dukuly has expressed dismay over attacks in the media on a Bomi County Senatorial aspirant over the weekend, and called on the Liberian National Police to be proactive in the ongoing electioneering process.
According to him, the upcoming senatorial election and the media’s role represent a test case that will determine the progress the country’s democracy is making.
Speaking at the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism (MICAT) Ebola briefings Monday, the Internal Affairs Minister said,
“all forms of violence, whether against the media, individuals or the electoral process is unacceptable because it undermines government’s efforts in promoting a free and democratic state.”
Even though he stopped short of disclosing the affected persons and institutions because of legal implications, he indicated that people must bear the consequences of their actions.
Some persons allegedly linked to Grand Bassa County Senatorial aspirant Gabriel Smith reportedly attacked and vandalized equipment belonging to Radio Gbehzon in the county.
According to the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) President Abdulla Kamara, the union is conducting a vigorous professional review of the matter and has already held talks with stakeholders including the police and contestants, towards promoting impartial and early investigations that will ensure justice for all concerned.
The PUL is also cautioning journalists to remain professional and balanced in the performance of their national duties to avoid all forms of hostility in the conduct of the midterm senatorial election slated for Saturday, December 20, 2014.
LINA