FreedomNews | Gerald T. Morris
The Plenary of the House of Representatives in Liberia is currently deliberating a crucial bill focused on establishing comprehensive guidelines for the Ownership, Management, Licensing, and Operation of Community Radio Stations in the country. This significant decision stems from a proposal put forth by Nimba County District 2 Representative, Nyahn Flomo, a staunch advocate for the bill.
Representative Flomo highlighted the historical context, pointing out efforts made before the Liberian Civil War to decentralize public broadcasting through initiatives like the Liberia Rural Communications Network (LRCN) Project, supported by USAID. Sadly, the conflict led to the destruction of essential broadcasting infrastructure, including the regional radio stations in Voinjama, Gbarnga, and Zwedru, as well as the main radio station of ELBC.
Currently, Liberia boasts over one hundred and thirty community radio stations, with a growing trend towards establishing more. Representative Flomo stresses the necessity of a robust legal framework to oversee the ownership, management, licensing, and operations of these stations. Such a framework is crucial for ensuring the sustainability and success of the community radio sector in Liberia, fostering increased access to diverse programming, and encouraging community engagement in station activities.
House of Representatives whose endeavor signifies a pivotal step towards enhancing the broadcasting landscape in Liberia, promoting inclusivity, and empowering local communities through the medium of community radio has entrusted the joint legislative committee with the responsibility of presenting a detailed report on the bill within a tight timeframe of two weeks.
Stay tuned for further updates as Liberia progresses towards a more vibrant and regulated community radio sector.
About The Author
A McDonald Dennis
District 11
Montserrado County
amcdonalddennis1984@gmail.com
+231888523535
June 4, 2024
His Ex. Joseph Nyumah Boakai
President
Republic of Liberia
Subject: Concerns regarding Poor Working Relationship and Conduct at the Drugs Enforcement Agency
Dear President Boakai:
I hope this letter reaches you in good health and high spirits. First and foremost, please accept my heartfelt congratulations on your successful tenure as the esteemed president of our beloved nation. You have brought about significant positive changes and progress, defying all odds and challenges.
I write this letter with deep respect and utmost concern about an issue that requires your immediate attention.
It is with a heavy heart and a sense of duty, I bring to your attention the constant display of poor working relationships and conduct by two high-ranking government officials at the Liberia Drugs Enforcement Agency (LDEA) including the entity Director General Abraham Kromah and his Deputy Director for Administration Hassan Fadiga.
Mr. President, over the past few months, these high profile officials of your government actions and behaviors have become increasingly detrimental to the efficacy and reputation of the agency.
The foremost problem lies in the complete breakdown of cooperation and trust between Director Abraham Kromah and Deputy Director Hassan Fadiga.
Their working relationship has become increasingly strained, causing a ripple effect of poor communication, lack of coordination, and an overall decline in the agency’s efficiency and goals. This toxic atmosphere has permeated throughout the department, negatively affecting the morale of subordinate staff and compromising the mission to combat drug-related crimes effectively.
Furthermore Mr. President, their conduct has been less than professional. Public outbursts, verbal insults, and constant undermining of each other’s authority have become common occurrences, not only within the confines of LDEA but also during public events and press conferences.
This image tarnishes the reputation of the drugs enforcement agency and erodes public trust in the institution and its ability to execute its duties effectively.
As a concerned citizen who recognizes the significance of maintaining a robust and well-functioning drugs enforcement agency, I humbly request your intervention in addressing these pressing issues.
The continuous display of poor working relationships and unprofessional conduct by these officials pose a significant threat to the agency’s mandate and the larger cause of ensuring public safety.
I kindly implore you to initiate an investigation into these matters and take appropriate measures to remedy the situation.Allocating resources for mediation, conflict resolution training, and fostering a healthy work environment are potential steps toward resolving these issues.
Additionally, consideration should be given to any necessary personnel changes if deemed imperative to restore harmony and efficiency at the drugs enforcement agency.
I have full confidence that, under your astute leadership, our nation will overcome this hurdle and maintain the highest standards in public service.
Thank you for your attention to this pressing matter, and I remain hopeful that your swift action will alleviate the predicaments faced by the drugs enforcement agency.
Yours sincerely,
A. McDonald Dennis
Concerned Citizen