J. Nathaniel Daygbor
19 April 2008
On Thursday, the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) finalized its commitment with the presentation of three draft bills to the National Legislature. Throng of Liberian journalists, civil society groups as well as students, marched to the Capitol Building for the purpose of presenting the three draft bills which are intended to shape the media landscape of the country.
Thursday's program is historic, according to some journalists because it set the stage for bringing about new direction in journalism in the country.
The parade was spearheaded by PUL Secretary General, Peter Quaqua, Media executive Malcolm Joseph, Inquirer's Managing Editor, Philip Wesseh, BBC Correspondent Jonathan Payelayleh amongst other journalists.
Journalists gabbed in sparkling white T-Shirts with blue and red inscriptions as well as blue jeans as a symbol of togetherness and determination.
At the Capitol Building, they group was received by Senator Gbezongar Findley followed by the reading of the petition by Secretary General, Peter Quaqua.
He read: "The three draft bills include the Freedom of Information Act, an Act to Establish the Independent Broadcasting Regulatory, and an Act establishing the Liberia Broadcasting Service to replace the Liberia Broadcasting System.
Mr. Quaqua said from the media environments, the concerns remain the limitation of people to freely express themselves on matters that affect their personal and national well-being and the limitation of opportunities for the people to seek information for their professional, educational and political growth.
According to him, these restraints have limited not only journalists, but also students, commercials and ordinary citizens in the full enjoyment of their rights.
He noted that at the passage of these laws, any Liberian, irrespective of being journalist or otherwise, would have the opportunity of seeking whatever information she wants with out the fear of been rejected.
Receiving the bills on behalf of the Senate, Grand Bassa County Senior Senator, Gbezongar Findley said that the three draft bills are the first of its kind since their seating to receive from the citizens.
Also Grand Kru County Senator Cletus Wotorson said he was happy that media practitioners could petition the House for the passage of the bill.
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