(Minneapolis, 21 October 2024) – The Association of Liberian Journalists in the Americas (ALJA) has expressed concerns regarding allegations of bribes paid to members of Liberia’s House of Representatives in exchange for votes to remove Speaker Jonathan Fonati Koffa.  ALJA acknowledges the right of lawmakers to pursue the removal of Speaker Koffa, but stresses that such actions must be rooted in transparency, not corruption. ALJA believes bribery erodes trust in Liberia’s democratic institutions and harm the public interest. In a release, the organization also expressed concerns about accusations of financial mismanagement, conflicts of interest, and poor leadership raised against Speaker Koffa by lawmakers seeking his removal. Additionally, ALJA notes Speaker Koffa’spush for transparency in the budget process, including his call for legislative reforms and audits, which could have motivated opposition against him. ALJA calls for an impartial investigation into both the bribery allegations and the financial mismanagement claims. It stresses the importance of restoring public confidence in Liberia’s governance through a transparent and fair process. ALJA is a U.S.-based Liberian media advocacy organization committed to promoting press freedom and fostering good governance through media advocacy. Founded in 1998, ALJA supports accountability and integrity in Liberia’s political affairs.

Minneapolis – The Association of Liberian Journalists in the Americas (ALJA) has strongly condemned recent developments surrounding the ongoing crisis within Liberia’s House of Representatives, in which the Justice Minister and Attorney-General allegedly skewed the interpretation of the recent Supreme Court ruling in favor of the so-called majority members of the House. ALJA says the Attorney-General’s actions, carried out under the instruction of the Executive branch, undermine the rule of law and the doctrine of separation of powers enshrined in Liberia’s Constitution. In a statement signed by its President, Joey Kennedy, ALJA noted that while the Supreme Court’s interpretation of Articles 33 and 49 of the Liberian Constitution refrained from explicitly addressing the legality of actions taken by the anti-Koffa faction within the House of Representatives, the Attorney-General’s skewed interpretation risks exacerbating the already volatile crisis. At the same time, ALJA expressed deep concern over the Executive Mansion’s decision to withdraw security personnel and other government resources assigned to House Speaker J. Fonati Koffa amid the ongoing crisis. ALJA views the withdrawal of Speaker Koffa’s security detail as blatant intimidation that undermines both the principle of separation of powers and the integrity of Liberia’s governance. Such actions, ALJA stressed, compromise Speaker Koffa’s safety and set a dangerous precedent for using state power to influence legislative processes. ALJA calls on President Joseph Nyumah Boakai to demonstrate leadership by respecting the fundamental doctrine of separation of powers and refraining from interference in the affairs of the House of Representatives. Meanwhile, ALJA has condemned threats made by Nimba County Representative Samuel Kogar against journalist Julius Jeh of OK FM. During a live broadcast, Representative Kogar accused Jeh of inciting public discontent over the ongoing leadership crisis and issued veiled threats of potential consequences against the journalist. ALJA believes such intimidation constitutes a direct attack on press freedom and undermines the media’s critical role as a cornerstone of democracy. The U.S.-based advocacy group insists that journalists must be free to report on critical national issues without fear of retribution or harm. ALJA reiterates that press freedom is non-negotiable and essential for holding leaders accountable, fostering transparency, and ensuring that the Liberian people remain informed about their government’s actions. The Association remains steadfast in its commitment to advocating for a free press, good governance, and respect for Liberia’s constitutional order. ALJA will continue to monitor the situation and speak out against actions that threaten Liberia’s democratic progress. ALJA is a U.S.-based Liberian media advocacy organization committed to promoting press freedom and fostering good governance through media advocacy. Founded in 1998, ALJA supports accountability and integrity in Liberia’s political affairs.

Minneapolis, USA, December 26, 2024 – The Association of Liberian Journalists in the Americas (ALJA) has congratulated the Government of Liberia, under the leadership of President Joseph Boakai, on Liberia’s qualification for a Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Compact Grant which positions the country to receive up to $500 million in development funding from the United States Government. ALJA acknowledges that the MCC Grant, which could have transformative impacts on the country’s future, marks a significant turning point in the nation’s governance and reform journey. Achieving this milestone required Liberia to meet stringent benchmarks across several sectors, including the rule of law, fiscal management, trade policy, and anti-corruption efforts. These reforms reflect the government’s commitment to fostering good governance, promoting transparency, and creating the foundation for sustainable development. In a press release, ALJA says the MCC Compact Grant represents a unique opportunity for Liberia to address critical development challenges. If finalized, the grant is expected to focus on key sectors such as infrastructure development, energy access, and economic diversification. These areas are essential for enhancing the country’s global competitiveness, creating jobs, and reducing poverty. ALJA views this achievement not only as a reflection of the government’s determination but also as an opportunity for the Liberian people to experience tangible improvements in their daily lives and livelihoods. ALJA further states that President Boakai’s leadership, encapsulated in the Arrest Agenda for Inclusive Development, has been pivotal in meeting the MCC Scorecard’s rigorous standards. The ARREST Agenda emphasizes inclusive governance, national unity, and systematic reform, ensuring that all Liberians benefit from development initiatives. This focus on inclusivity, combined with targeted efforts to improve governance, has played a crucial role in rebuilding international trust and attracting vital development support. ALJA commends the administration for its resilience and dedication to achieving these benchmarks despite the challenges posed by systemic issues and external pressures. While this achievement is worthy of celebration, ALJA underscores the importance of sustained efforts to ensure that Liberia maximizes the benefits of the MCC Compact Grant. Specifically, ALJA urges the Government of Liberia to Deepen Anti-Corruption Measures by ensuring that resources from the grant are transparently allocated and managed, with robust oversight mechanisms in place as well as Strengthen Institutional Frameworks by building the capacity of public institutions to effectively implement and monitor MCC-funded projects. The Liberian Diaspora based advocacy organizations also wants government to engage civil society and citizens to promote broad-based participation in planning and executing development initiatives and ensuring that all Liberians feel the impact of these investments while at the same time maintaining progress on MCC Indicators by focusing on long-term reforms to ensure continued eligibility for MCC funding in the future. At the same time, ALJA calls on Liberians at home and abroad to unite in support of this achievement and work collectively toward consolidating the gains made. “Diaspora Liberians, in particular, have a vital role to play in advocating for sustained reforms, investing in local initiatives, and holding leaders accountable,” a release signed by ALJA President Joey Kennedy concluded.  As a media advocacy organization, ALJA remains steadfast in its mission to promote good governance, press freedom, and the rule of law in Liberia. ALJA says it will continue to support development efforts in Liberia and hold stakeholders accountable for ensuring that the MCC Compact Grant translates into real, transformative progress for all Liberians.