Published: June 19, 2026
The late Daniel Zayzay
MONROVIA — The Press Union of Liberia (PUL) has paid tribute to two veteran journalists whose contributions helped shape Liberia’s media landscape, honoring the memories of Daniel Zayzay and James Paykoo while calling on media practitioners and the public to join their families in giving them a dignified farewell.
The tributes were conveyed during condolence visits made by a PUL delegation to the families of the late journalists between June 14 and June 15 in Paynesville and Harbel, respectively.
The visits, led by PUL President Julius Kanubah, were intended to express solidarity with the bereaved families and recognize the enduring professional legacies left behind by the two media practitioners.
Zayzay, who served as station manager of Peace FM in Harbel, Margibi County, died on May 25, 2025, following a brief illness. He was 42.
For nearly two decades, he dedicated his career to journalism, becoming a respected voice in his community through his commitment to public service, ethical reporting and community engagement.
Paykoo, a retired journalist who previously worked with the state-owned Liberia Broadcasting System’s ELBC and Prime FM, died on June 7, 2026, after a prolonged illness. He was 69.
With more than 30 years of experience in broadcasting, Paykoo earned admiration from colleagues and listeners alike for his professionalism and commanding voice, which became a hallmark of his distinguished career as a newscaster.
The late James Paykoo
According to the PUL, both men made invaluable contributions to the development of journalism in Liberia and served as role models for younger generations of reporters and broadcasters.
Speaking on behalf of the union, Kanubah described the deaths of the two journalists as significant losses not only to their families but also to the Liberian media community.
“Their dedication, professionalism and commitment to informing the public will continue to inspire journalists across the country,” the union said in a statement.
The delegation that visited the Paykoo family included journalists Solo Urias Lewis and Jutonu Kollie. The team that traveled to Harbel to meet the family of Zayzay comprised Lewis, Howison Woah, Ebenezer Foley and Emmanuel Lloyd. During the visits, family members expressed appreciation to the PUL for recognizing the contributions of their loved ones and for standing with them during a difficult period of grief.
The union said such gestures reflect the solidarity that exists within Liberia’s journalism community and underscore the importance of honoring those who devoted their lives to public information and media service.
The deaths of Zayzay and Paykoo come at a time when Liberia’s media sector continues to evolve amid growing demands for professional journalism, public accountability and access to reliable information.
Media observers note that veteran journalists such as Zayzay and Paykoo played critical roles in strengthening public trust in journalism through years of dedicated reporting and broadcasting.
As part of efforts to honor Zayzay’s memory, the PUL announced that it will open a book of condolence on Friday at Peace FM in Harbel beginning at 11 a.m. The initiative will allow journalists, friends, colleagues and community members to pay their respects and celebrate his life and work.
The union has also encouraged journalists, communication professionals, friends of the media and members of the public to participate in the funeral activities organized for both men.
According to the announced schedule, wake-keeping for Zayzay will take place Friday in Harbel, followed by funeral services on Saturday, June 20.
Funeral services for Paykoo are scheduled for June 25 in Paynesville, Montserrado County.
The PUL said the ceremonies will provide an opportunity for the nation and the media community to reflect on the contributions of two journalists who dedicated much of their lives to informing the public and advancing the profession.
As Liberia’s media fraternity mourns their passing, colleagues remember Zayzay and Paykoo not only for their professional accomplishments but also for their commitment to truth, public service and the development of journalism in the country.
Their legacies, the union said, will remain an enduring part of Liberia’s media history and continue to inspire future generations of journalists.
“The Press Union of Liberia calls on all journalists, media and communication practitioners, friends of the media, and the public to join the bereaved families in giving these fallen colleagues a befitting farewell,” Kanubah said.
The passing of the two journalists marks the end of remarkable careers, but their contributions to Liberia’s media sector will continue to resonate long after their final broadcasts and reports.
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