By Aruna Goepogui
September 30, 2026
Press Union of Liberia (PUL) President Julius Kanubah has expressed concern over the potential impact of Liberia’s Cybercrime Act on press freedom and the broader rights to freedom of speech and expression.
Kanubah spoke during the PUL’s 62nd anniversary celebration held at the Clare Marie Weah Event Hall in Monrovia.
He acknowledged that the Cybercrime Act contains provisions aimed at addressing cyber-related offenses but cautioned that certain aspects of the legislation could create challenges for the exercise of fundamental freedoms, particularly the freedom of the press.
According to Kanubah, the legislation was enacted following what he described as limited consultations with civil society organizations, media institutions and the wider public.
He is therefore calling on the government to exercise restraint and caution in enforcing the law until adequate public awareness is created and citizens, journalists and other stakeholders have a clearer understanding of its provisions.
The PUL president also called for a review and possible amendment of the legislation where necessary, stressing that, efforts to strengthen cybersecurity should be balanced with the protection of fundamental rights, including freedom of speech and expression.
Kanubah further raised concerns about the use of judicial powers, including contempt proceedings, which he said could have implications for freedom of speech and expression in Liberia.
Meanwhile, the PUL president said the Union has, over the past 12 months, continued to establish partnerships aimed at strengthening the capacity of journalists across Liberia.
He disclosed that some of the partnerships are already ongoing, while others are expected to be finalized.
Among the initiatives, Kanubah cited a planned partnership with the Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco, which he said is intended to support and empower Liberian journalists.
