By Martin K.N. Kollie
Voices from Exile (VEx) is judiciously monitoring a grand scheme which is principally intended to muzzle free press and free speech ahead of 2020 and 2023 polls in Liberia.
The Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA) has set forth a number of harsh measures and stringent FM regulations for radio stations operating in Liberia especially across Montserrado County:
1) Registration fee – US$300
2) Annual fee – US$3,000
3) A compulsory permit from MICAT
4) A business license
5) Full adherence to or compliance with LTA new regime and standards of broadcasting.
The LTA Boss, Edwina Crump Zackpah, has already issued a 7-day reminder letter for media houses or FM stations to begin satisfying these unreasonable regulations with immediate effect or risk closure.
We see these harsh and unpleasant regulations as a seed of discord and a trojan attack on media houses. How can GOL through LTA charge US$3,300 amid harsh economic condition? Has GOL paid those debts it currently owes media houses?
VEx condemns this anti-democratic strategy and vicious concoction to coerce critical journalists and independent media institutions in Liberia.
In our opinion, this is grand design to fiercely harass, intimidate, and muzzle free press and free speech. The Weah-led government must immediately back off from this premature conspiracy. Hands off Liberian journalists.
We fully stand with and by journalists and press freedom during these tragic moments. Up with press freedom, Down with media censorship.
Issued on this 3rd Day of September A. D. 2020 from exile.
Signed: Martin K. N. Kollie
Exiled Liberian activist and Chief Convener
Voices from Exile (VEx)
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About Author:
Martin K. N. Kollie is a Liberian youth activist, a columnist, and an emerging economist. He fled to exile after consistent attacks on his person because of his critical stance. He was also a student leader at the state run University of Liberia.
