Monrovia, Liberia – May 26, 2025 — The Legislative Press Pool (LEGISPOOL) has sharply criticized the Press and Public Affairs Department of the Liberian Senate over what it describes as an increasingly toxic and intolerant working relationship, marked by censorship, exclusion, and disregard for the role of independent journalism at the Capitol.
Speaking during a Senate-organized refresher workshop on Monday, LEGISPOOL, through its Secretary-General Blamo N. Toe, accused the Press Bureau of engaging in practices that stifle dissent, suppress media freedom, and undermine transparency within the legislature.
LEGISPOOL pointed specifically to the recent suspension of its Vice President, Jackson C. Clay, Jr., who was removed from the Senate Accredited Reporters’ chatroom and barred from legislative coverage for nearly a month after expressing a dissenting opinion. The organization condemned the move as “punitive, disproportionate, and clearly aimed at silencing independent voices.”
“This is not just an overreaction—it’s an affront to press freedom,” Toe said, warning that such actions set a dangerous precedent and undermine the Senate’s commitment to democratic accountability.
In addition to what it views as targeted intimidation, LEGISPOOL also raised alarm over restricted access to public legislative documents, such as committee reports and witness testimonies—information vital to accurate and balanced reporting. The organization said reporters are often told such materials are unavailable, even though they are essential for public understanding of legislative proceedings.
“Too often, we are left in the dark. If the very office tasked with public communication cannot provide access to information, where else should we turn?” the group questioned.
Further criticizing the Senate Press Bureau, LEGISPOOL condemned what it called the systematic exclusion of independent journalists from retreats and legislative events, both locally and abroad. It called for a more transparent and rotational system to ensure fair media representation across all engagements.
LEGISPOOL also expressed frustration over the lack of formal communication regarding abrupt security changes at the Capitol, which it said have disrupted the work of journalists. The group recommended that any new protocols be communicated promptly through the Press Department to avoid operational setbacks.
Despite repeated requests, the leadership of LEGISPOOL revealed it has been unable to secure a meeting with the Senate leadership to address these concerns. The organization also reiterated its appeal for basic logistical support, including funding for identification badges, jackets, and operational materials needed to enhance its institutional presence and effectiveness.
The press body reminded Senate Pro Tempore Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence of her past commitment to support legislative journalists, noting that her background in media should inform a more supportive posture toward the press corps.
LEGISPOOL ended its statement by calling for an immediate shift in how the Press and Public Affairs Department engages with the media, urging greater openness, professionalism, and respect for the role of the press in safeguarding legislative transparency.
“Independent media is not an enemy of the Senate—it is an ally of accountability,” the statement emphasized.
