GBARNGA, Bong County — Over 40 journalists in Bong County have thrown their support behind Team Unity ahead of the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) elections set for August 2024, endorsing the group’s candidates for top leadership positions in what they describe as a push for greater inclusivity and gender equality in the union.
“We believe that electing Madam Mae Azango as president, Aloysius Makor as vice president, Akoi M. Baysah, Jr. as Secretary-General, and Julius Konton as Assistant Secretary-General of the Press Union of Liberia will demonstrate a firm commitment to ensuring equal opportunities for all members of our profession, regardless of gender,” the group’s statement declared.
The journalists emphasized that “conscience-minded journalists in Bong County firmly believe it is time for a female-led leadership at the helm of the Press Union of Liberia.” They pointed out that, despite the substantial contributions women have made to journalism throughout history, they remain underrepresented in leadership positions.
The endorsement statement further highlighted that electing an experienced and dedicated female journalist would be a bold and progressive step toward achieving true gender equality in Liberia’s media sector.
“Female journalists bring unique perspectives and a wealth of experience to the table. They have faced and overcome numerous challenges throughout their careers, demonstrating resilience, persistence, and dedication to reporting the truth,” the statement added.
The group argued that a leadership inclusive of female representation would provide role models for aspiring women journalists and ensure that the union’s leadership understands the challenges faced by everyone in the field, especially in Liberia.
In response to the endorsement, presidential hopeful and award-winning journalist Madam Mae Azango expressed gratitude to the Bong journalists for their unwavering support. She promised to prioritize unity within the union if elected.
“The union is deeply divided due to nearly two years of court battles initiated by my opponent, Team Julius Kanubah,” she remarked. “Liberators do not become rulers. Kanubah is partly responsible for this division and should either step down or face rejection from the members through protest votes.”
Madam Azango, the lone female presidential aspirant, stressed that the Press Union of Liberia is at a crossroads and that it is time for a unifier like herself to take the helm. She pledged to focus on constructing the Press Union Headquarters, promoting press freedom and human rights, ensuring equal opportunities, and restoring the union’s dignity locally and internationally.
In her closing remarks, Madam Azango urged journalists across the country to rally behind Team Unity and ensure that every member is elected for a vibrant and responsible union.
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