Published: October 1, 2024
Monrovia – Team Unity of the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) has cautioned international donors and partners that their attendance at today’s inauguration of Julius K. Kanubah and others would be an endorsement of an undemocratic process that threatens the principles of fairness, transparency, and democratic governance.
The September 21, 2024 elections within the PUL were marred by substantial irregularities under interim leadership led by Mr. Peter Quaqua. The contentious election saw only 208 out of 1,280 eligible voters — a mere 16% of the union’s total membership. This low participation was a result of a boycott from 84% of the members, including crucial opposition candidates.
The election’s integrity is further questioned by the impending legal hearing aimed at addressing procedural discrepancies and disenfranchisement during the September 21 election. Despite this, the inauguration is still slated to proceed, a move that Team Unity believes would validate these irregularities and further deepen the ongoing disunity and crisis that has afflicted the union for over two years.
The 9th Judicial Circuit Court’s call for fresh elections was ignored by the interim leadership. This action, according to Team Unity, demonstrates an intent by the interim committee, led by Mr. Quaqua, to cling to power through undemocratic means.
Team Unity strongly advised international partners against participating in or acknowledging today’s events, which would be seen as endorsing a process that undermines the union’s commitment to fair and open elections.
Team Unity continues to advocate for a legitimate electoral process within the Press Union of Liberia, one that truly reflects the collective will of its members and upholds the foundational principles of justice and equity, crucial for any reputable journalistic institution. They call for solidarity from all stakeholders to ensure that democratic values are not just upheld but cherished within the union.
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