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Excellent News Liberia, Gbarnga (2026)

10/03/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Dangerous Attempt to Stifle Free Speech - PUL Rejects Amendment to KAK Act of Press Freedom

(Monrovia, March 10, 2026): The Press Union of Liberia (PUL) has strongly rejected a proposed amendment to the Kamara Abdullah Kamara (KAK) Act of Press Freedom, warning that the draft “Gender-Based Online Abuse and Harassment Act” represents a grave threat to freedom of speech and expression in Liberia.

Speaking at a public hearing on Monday, 9 March 2026, PUL President Julius Kanubah warned that any attempt to amend the landmark KAK Act would constitute a significant reversal of hard-won democratic gains that have decriminalized anti-free speech offenses in Liberia.

“The Press Union of Liberia is deeply concerned that the proposed amendment would undermine the spirit and letter of the KAK Act, which repealed oppressive laws such as criminal libel against the President, sedition, and criminal malevolence. The draft legislation not only contradicts the progress made but also risks re-criminalizing free speech and press freedom,” Mr. Kanubah stated.

The PUL President further emphasized that, as proposed, the “Protection from Gender-Based Online Abuse and Harassment Act of 2026” would create avenues for public officials to target and punish individuals for critical expression. He stressed that while the PUL does not condone personal insults or abusive language, criminalizing such conduct is a disproportionate and dangerous response.

The draft law proposes that anyone found guilty of using insulting, obscene, or harassing language on social media platform, internet forum, or electronic communication could face imprisonment for up to two years, fines ranging from fifty to five hundred thousand Liberian dollars, or both, at the discretion of the courts.

The PUL maintains that such measures are excessive and unnecessary, as existing civil remedies under Section 17.3 of the Penal Law of 1978 are sufficient to address disorderly conduct and abusive language.

Instead of weakening the KAK Act, the PUL urges lawmakers to disregard the proposed amendment, noting that issues of online harassment and abuse are already addressed in the draft Cybercrime Act currently before the legislature.

“We appeal respectfully to the Joint Committee on Judiciary, Information, Broadcasting, Cultural, and Tourism, and the entire House of Representatives: do not amend the KAK Act of Press Freedom. To do so would set a dangerous precedent and risk sending people to jail simply for exercising their constitutional rights,” Mr. Kanubah urged, while underscoring the growing attitude of some public officials in the judiciary, executive, and legislature to target and punish people for critical expressions.

The PUL’s position has garnered support from prominent figures, including Mr. Kwame Clement, Founding President and Dean of the Liberia School of Law, and Mr. Ralph Nyuma of the Independent National Commission on Human Rights. Mr. Clement, a respected journalist and legal academic, echoed the PUL’s concerns, calling on lawmakers to carefully scrutinize the proposed amendment for its potential to chill free speech.

The draft Gender-Based Online Abuse and Harassment Act was introduced by Representative Nyahn Flomo of Nimba County, District 2, in response to concerns about the misuse of free expression on social media.

However, Representative Sumo Mulbah, also of the House Joint Committee, voiced strong opposition to any legislative measure that would erode press freedom or contravene Liberia’s obligations under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and United Nations conventions.

The Press Union of Liberia calls on the House of Representatives to stand firm in defense of free speech, expression, and a free press – cornerstones of democracy and good governance in Liberia.

Signed:

Julius Kullie Kanubah
President/PUL

10/03/2026

As political discussions surrounding the upcoming senatorial race in B**g County intensify ahead of the 2029 General Elections in Liberia, many citizens and political observers are turning their attention to former B**g County Electoral District #5 Representative Edward Karfiah, whose experience, leadership record, and vision for development have positioned him as a strong contender for the county’s Senate seat.

Supporters argue that Karfiah’s years of legislative experience and deep understanding of B**g County’s needs make him well-suited to represent the county at the Liberian Senate.

Having previously served as a lawmaker and chairperson on the Public Account Committee at the House of Representatives, Karfiah is widely recognized for his familiarity with national policy-making and his ability to advocate effectively for his constituents.

Proven Legislative Experience

One of the major reasons many residents believe Hon. Edward Karfiah should be elected senator is his experience in governance. During his tenure as Representative of Electoral District #5 in B**g, Karfiah consistently participated in national legislative debates and contributed to the passage of laws aimed at improving governance and development in Liberia.

Community leaders in B**g County say his experience in the National Legislature would allow him to transition smoothly into the Senate, where greater responsibility is placed on lawmakers to influence national policy and advocate for county-level development.
Political analyst Joseph Kollie noted that experienced lawmakers often bring an advantage in the Senate.

“Someone who understands the legislative process is better positioned to negotiate for resources and development projects for his county, rather than a selfish person who wants everything for himself. Karfiah isn’t greedy and evil like pharaoh” Kollie said.

Commitment to Development

Another factor strengthening Karfiah’s candidacy is his reputation for advocating development initiatives during his time in public service.

The B**g County residents say he maintained close engagement with community members and frequently emphasized the need for improvements in education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

Many citizens believe that his leadership could help accelerate development projects that B**g County has long awaited.
Local youth leader Patrick Mulbah said B**g County needs a senator who understands the struggles of ordinary people.

“We need someone who knows our problems and can speak for us at the national level,” Mulbah said. “Edward Karfiah has that experience.”

Vision for B**g County

In outlining his vision for B**g County, Karfiah has reportedly emphasized three major priorities: infrastructure development, youth empowerment, and improved social services that was outlined in the triple “R”.
He believes road connectivity remains essential to the county’s economic growth.

According to him, better roads would enhance agricultural productivity by allowing farmers to transport their goods to markets more easily.
Karfiah has also stressed the importance of youth empowerment through vocational training programs and job creation initiatives. He argues that empowering young people is critical to reducing unemployment and promoting stability in the county.

Additionally, the former electoral district five representative has pledged to advocate for improved healthcare facilities and educational opportunities that he has been involved in since 2012.

Strengthening Representation for B**g County

Supporters say Karfiah’s goal as senator would be to strengthen B**g County’s voice in national decision-making while ensuring that development resources are fairly allocated.

They believe his leadership style, which emphasizes consultation and collaboration with community leaders, could help build stronger partnerships between government and local residents.

As the political landscape continues to evolve ahead of the senatorial election, many voters are expected to closely evaluate the candidates and their visions for B**g County’s future.

For now, Edward Karfiah remains one of the figures drawing attention in the county’s political conversation, with supporters hopeful that his experience and development agenda could bring renewed momentum to B**g County’s growth and progress.

Keep following Excellent News Liberia

06/03/2026

Kolleh Admits Rising Political Challenge as Gatie Gains Ground in B**g County District #2

By: J. Peter S. Dennis

B**G COUNTY – Representative James M. Kolleh of Electoral District #2 in B**g County has acknowledged that the growing political momentum of representative aspirant Jutomue Gatie poses a significant challenge to his hold on the district seat ahead of the 2029 legislative elections.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of student leaders at the Grace Baptist Junior High School on Friday, March 6, 2026, Rep. Kolleh admitted that many of the individuals now opposing his leadership were once closely associated with him politically.

According to the lawmaker, the emergence of new political challengers—including Gatie—reflects internal political divisions among people he once mentored and supported.
“I made some of the very people who are now fighting me for this seat,” Kolleh reportedly told the gathering.

Growing Political Tension

The admission comes at a time when political competition in B**g County’s District #2 is intensifying, with several aspirants positioning themselves for the 2029 legislative race after Kolleh’s decimal performances in the district.

Among them, Jutomue Gatie has increasingly been mentioned by residents and community leaders as a serious contender capable of mounting a strong challenge against the incumbent.

Observers say Gatie’s rising popularity has begun to shift local political conversations, particularly among young voters and community groups seeking what they describe as “new leadership” in the district.

Political analysts note that District #2 has historically experienced intense electoral competition, but the current political atmosphere appears to be building earlier than usual ahead of the next election cycle.

Criticism Over Unfulfilled Promises

Rep. Kolleh’s acknowledgment of political opposition also comes amid growing criticism from many residents who accuse him of failing to fully implement several campaign promises made during previous elections.

Community members in parts of the district have expressed frustration over what they claim are slow or lack of developmental initiatives, including infrastructure improvements, youth empowerment programs, and social services.

They argue that the dissatisfaction has created an opening for new political figures like Gatie to gain support among voters eager for change.

“People are now looking for someone who will deliver on promises and bring visible development to the district,” said one community member during a recent discussion about the district’s political future.

Gatie Yet to Respond

As of press time, representative aspirant Jutomue Gatie has not publicly responded to Rep. Kolleh’s remarks. However, supporters of the aspirant maintain that his growing influence in the district reflects a grassroots desire for new leadership as James Kolleh has failed on his promises.

They argue that the increasing attention surrounding Gatie’s political ambition demonstrates a broader shift in voter expectations within District #2.

Political Road to 2029

While Liberia’s next legislative elections remain several years away, early political maneuvering in B**g County suggests that the contest for District #2 could become one of the most closely watched races in the county as there are several emerging names for this seat after Kolleh’s failure.

With criticism mounting against the incumbent and new challengers steadily gaining visibility, political observers say the coming years may prove decisive in shaping the district’s political direction.

For now, Rep. Kolleh’s acknowledgment of the challenge posed by emerging aspirants appears to signal that the political landscape in B**g County’s District #2 is already beginning to shift.

Keep following Excellent News Liberia for more updates

02/03/2026

News 📰

Gartie Criticizes B**g Leaders, Calls for Youthful Leadership to Drive County Development; wants B**gese consider electing more youthful representatives who understand legislative processes and possess firsthand knowledge of the county’s challenges
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Gbarnga, B**g County: ‎A permanent son of B**g Electoral District #2, Mr. Jutomue Gatie, has strongly criticized leaders of B**g County, particularly District #2 lawmaker James M. Kolleh, over what he termed as prioritizing personal interests over collective welfare of citizens; urged residents of the county to entrust leadership responsibilities to young people, if the County is to achieve meaningful development.
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‎Speaking recently, Mr. Gartie said the prolonged underdevelopment of the County remains the result of self-centered leadership style, noting that many of the County leaders continue to pursue individual political ambitions rather than advancing the interests of the people that elected them to serve.
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‎According to him, the absence of unity among county leaders has significantly slowed progress across various sectors in B**g County.

He emphasized that young people represent the county’s best hope for strong transformation, stressing that youthful leadership possesses energy, innovation, and unity required to reposition B**g County on a path of growth.
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‎He maintained that when given the opportunity to serve in electoral district #2, he will be capable of organizing the county in a manner that benefits all citizens rather than self interest.
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‎Mr. Gartie further challenged members of the B**g County Legislative Caucus to set aside personal egos and work collectively toward countywide development initiatives.

The Yandiwoan native questioned whether any major joint legislative projects benefiting the county have been implemented in recent years, arguing that political rivalry continues to undermine cooperation among elected officials.
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‎ According to him, political competition driven by future electoral ambitions; particularly ahead of the 2029 elections has overshadowed development priorities across B**g County. He noted that leaders of the County only engage communities during political seasons to secure support for re-election rather than addressing pressing concerns affecting residents.
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‎Citing District #2 as an example, Gartie referenced reports of environmental challenges affecting residents of Money Sweet Town, stating that community members have not received adequate attention from their leader since the spread of chemicals in the area.

He accused politicians of visiting the affected communities mainly for political advantage instead of delivering lasting solutions.
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‎ Mr. Jutomue Gartie at the same time called on citizens of B**g County to consider electing more youthful representatives who understand legislative processes and possess firsthand knowledge of the county’s challenges.

The former aide to Hon James M. Kolleh stressed that young people, having lived and experienced the realities of B**g County, are better positioned to identify development gaps and implement sustainable solutions.
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‎Mr. Gartie who served as guest speaker at the 8th Students Council Installation Ceremony of the Gbarnga Free Pentecostal in Gbarnga spoke on the theme, “Believe in Yourself,” encouraging students to remain confident despite societal doubts about the capabilities of young people.
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‎He urged members of the newly inducted student leadership to demonstrate discipline, punctuality, and commitment, noting that true leadership is measured by service and example rather than title or position.

The Not Too Young To Lead Executive Director encouraged the students to uphold integrity and responsibility within their institution, adding that communities will only trust young leaders who prove their competence through action.
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‎The B**g District #2 native then urged young people across B**g County to reject negative stereotypes often associated with youth and instead strive to exemplify positive leadership qualities.

He expressed confidence that when young leaders believe in themselves and lead responsibly, their performance will ultimately redefine public perception and contribute meaningfully to community and national development.

Keep following Excellent News Liberia

01/03/2026

𝗜𝗿𝗮𝗻'𝘀 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗧𝗩 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗶𝗿𝗺𝘀 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗲 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗞𝗵𝗮𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗶'𝘀 𝗱𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵
Iranian state TV has confirmed the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The announcement follows US President Trump's claims of an airstrike.

28/02/2026

Breaking 📰

Representative Marvin Cole's camp gets a political slap as seven officials endorse Katfiah's senatorial quest; cite consistent accessibility, development-focused agenda, and dedication to strengthening human resource capacity as points of support.

Gbarnga, B**g County: The political landscape in B**g County is beginning to take shape ahead of the 2029 elections, as Hon. Edward W. Karfiah’s senatorial ambition receives a notable boost from a group of prominent supporters previously aligned with B**g's third County district representative, Hon J Marvin Cole.

Seven influential backers of Rep. Cole have publicly withdrawn their support from what they describe as his anticipated senatorial pursuit and instead pledged allegiance to Karfiah’s bid for the Liberian Senate.

Those officials include: Chairman Young L. Bao, J. Clarence Forkpah, Kymberlyne Frank, Paul Ramsey Jones, Sabie S. Gaydolor, William N. Bomosee, and G. Togbah Matthews.

Explaining their decision in a press conference on Saturday, February 28, 2026, the group cited Karfiah’s consistent accessibility, development-focused agenda, and dedication to strengthening human resource capacity and improving the living standards of citizens.

They pointed to his tenure as Representative of B**g County District Five from 2011 to 2023 as evidence of his leadership credentials and ability to deliver tangible results.

The supporters, headed by Mr. Young L. Bao, expressed confidence that Hon. Karfiah possesses the experience and vision required to effectively represent B**g County at the Liberian Senate beyond 2029. They urged residents across B**g County to unite behind his candidacy as preparations for 2029 gradually intensify.

The group further disclosed that in 2023, Rep. Cole had convened them in support of Karfiah’s potential senatorial bid — a move they embraced at the time as being in the county’s interest.

However, they now question what they characterize as a shift in political direction, citing concerns about consistency and trust as key factors influencing their realignment.

Reaffirming their position, the team maintained that backing Karfiah’s aspiration is both legitimate and necessary, pledging to stand firmly with him throughout the political process.

Keep following Excellent News Liberia for more updates

28/02/2026

Breaking news!

Some supporters of Hon J Marvin Cole of B**g's third district are expected to tender in their respective resignations this morning.

They're expected to join the senatorial bid of former electoral district five representative, Edward Karfiah .

What's happening?

Details soon.

27/02/2026

Former Electoral district five Representative Edward Wormen Karfiah identifies with the Sugar Hill Community School Student Council; pledges additional support for young people across the county

GBARNGA, B**g County – An aide to former B**g County Electoral District #5 Representative, Edward Wormen Karfiah, has presented a cash donation of L$35,000 to the student council leadership of Sugar Hill Community School in Gbarnga.

The contribution was made on Friday, February 27, 2026, during the school’s student council induction ceremony in Gbarnga.

Martin Fofana, an official in the former electoral district #5 lawmaker’s office, delivered the donation on behalf of Hon. Karfiah, serving as proxy guest speaker at the program before hundreds of students and parents including educational lovers.

In remarks delivered at the ceremony, Fofana stated that although Hon. Karfiah no longer holds the District #5 seat, he remains dedicated to promoting development and sustaining peace in B**g County. He added that the former representative has pledged to continue using his personal resources to support residents of the county whenever possible.

Fofana addressed the gathering on the theme, “The Importance of Youth Employment in National Development,” urging students to prioritize education and skills training.

He emphasized that empowering young people through employment opportunities is essential to driving national growth and long-term development.

Keep following Excellent News Liberia

25/02/2026

B**g County University, through its Vice President for Administration Mr. James K. Saybay, makes position clearer in the merger with Senator Prince K. Moye's Sumo Moye Technical College for educational purposes.

Saybay praised the Senator, stressing that the University needs additional spaces to operate. According to him, erecting another building on its 100 acres will take a longer time and huge resources.

23/02/2026

Hon. Edward Karfiah Clarifies Support for B**g County Reconciliation Process

Gbarnga, B**g County – Hon. Edward Karfiah, former senatorial candidate of B**g County, has clarified his position on the reconciliation process in the county.

While expressing his support for genuine reconciliation efforts, Hon. Karfiah highlighted concerns about the current reconciliation team's "lack of support and mismatched mechanism".

"I not against reconciliation in B**g. In fact, I have even reached out to people whom I have hurt, as a gesture of goodwill and commitment to the reconciliation process" Hon. Karfiah said.

He believes that reconciliation should be a genuine effort, not a publicity stunt or a means to an end.

According to the former electoral district #5 representative, laughter isn't friendship, and true reconciliation requires hard work, sincerity, and the support of all stakeholders.

Hon. Karfiah emphasized that he is not opposed to the reconciliation process, but rather, he wants to ensure that it is done in a transparent, inclusive, and meaningful way.

"I support the reconciliation process in B**g County, but on a genuine note. We must prioritize the needs and concerns of the people, and work towards healing and unity."

Hon. Karfiah's statement comes amid concerns about the effectiveness of the current reconciliation team headed by Dr. Mogana S Jr Flomo and the lack of "tangible progress" in addressing the county's challenges including division amongst leaders and citizens.

His comments are seen as a call to action for all stakeholders including the reconciliation committee to come together and work towards a more inclusive and sustainable reconciliation process in B**g County.

He spoke as a guest on Super B**gese's Let's Talk on Saturday via phone from Monrovia.

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