IPNEWS: The Association of Liberian Community Radios (ALICOR) is raising serious concerns over the recent actions of Grand Gedeh County Superintendent Alex Grant, who has unilaterally dissolved the board of Smile FM and appointed his own chairperson.
This act, according to ALICOR, is a violation of the independence and integrity of community radio stations, which serve as vital platforms for public discourse.
In a statement, ALICOR expressed its dismay over Superintendent Grant’s interference, particularly in light of his recent participation in the Local Government Conference held in Ganta.
“At the conference, the roles and responsibilities of county officials in relation to community radio operations were clearly outlined. Superintendents and other local officials were reminded to refrain from directly interfering in these stations’ operations,” ALICOR said.
ALICOR described the situation as alarming, noting, “The Smile FM case is not an isolated incident but reflects a broader trend of political interference that threatens the existence and independence of community radio stations across the country.”
The association further called on Liberia’s Minister of Internal Affairs to issue an immediate warning to county superintendents. ALICOR called on the Internal Affairs minister to advise all superintendents to cease interference in the operations of community radio stations across the country.
“These stations are meant to be platforms for building peace and promoting development, not tools for political manipulation,” ALICOR emphasized.
Superintendent Grant’s recent public declaration that Smile FM would be withdrawing from ALICOR only serves to exacerbate the issue. “This sets a dangerous precedent,” ALICOR cautioned, adding that it is “a clear abuse of power by certain public officials.”
The association also referenced a similar incident involving Radio Kakata, where political interference caused a leadership transition. “We have been working alongside Internews and ECOWAS to address a conflict at Radio Kakata. Incidents like this undermine community radio’s role as the voice of the people,” ALICOR stated.
Emmanuel Tophic Degleh, ALICOR’s Secretary General-Elect, reiterated the association’s commitment to the independence of community radio stations.
“ALICOR is deeply troubled by this uncivilized action. We call on local and international media rights organizations to take note of this situation and ensure that community radio stations across Liberia remain independent voices of the people.” Degleh added.
The statement concluded with a strong appeal for action. “Community radio stations are bridges for building peace, not propaganda tools for political actors,” ALICOR stressed.
