(Monrovia, August 30, 2019)- The Press Union of Liberia has named a preparatory committee for the celebration of its 55^th Anniversary. The event is scheduled for Gbarnga, Bong County.  

Founded in Monrovia on September 30, 1964, the Press Union of Liberia is the umbrella organization serving Liberian media professionals and institutions. With a membership base of more than 500 journalists, the PUL has oversight responsibility for addressing problems arising from journalists’ reportage and conduct in the face of the ever-growing demand for quality and good taste.

The Union’s code mandate is to advocate for press freedom and the protection of journalists. But since its founding, the Union has grown to a vibrant pro-democracy group that has championed not only media matters, but issues affecting the democratic governance of the state, social justice and human rights.

Currently, the Press Union is occupied with works aimed at improving the legal operating environment of the media in Liberia and the enrichment of its self-regulatory regime for the media plus addons like a legislated Independent Media Commission.

This year’s host of the Press Union of Liberia Anniversary Bong County is the central region of the country. It’s people predominantly Kpelle are respected for their roles in the expansion of Liberia to what are now Grand Gedeh, Nimba, and Lofa Counties. Ancestors of Bongees were mainly farmers but their intellectuals were revered throughout the Poro practicing forest region. Chief Suahkoko is one said leaders. The region like other parts of Liberia is grappling with challenges in education and healthcare delivery.  

Those appointed to the 2019 Press Union of Liberia Anniversary Preparatory Committee are:

1. Edwin Genoway, Chairman
2. Samuel Kplaiwru, Co-chair
3. Clarence Jackson, Secretary
4. Janjay Campbell, Member
5. Success Sulonkolo
6. Jutonu Kollie, Member
7. Papa Morris, Member
8. Tokpah Tarnue, Member
9. Joseph Kerkulah, Member
10. Roland Mulbah, Member 
11. Paul Bordo, Adviser

The 2019 Press Union of Liberia Anniversary Preparatory Committee will lead all organizational efforts to ensure the successful commemoration of the PUL Anniversary in Gbarnga.