21/04/2026
PRESS STATEMENT
For Immediate Release
April 21, 2026
District #13 Journalists Association Condemns Exclusion by Youth and Sports Minister Cornelia Kruah; Calls for Respect and Inclusion of Local Media
MONROVIA, Montserrado County — The Montserrado County District #13 Journalists Association strongly condemns the decision by the Minister of Youth and Sports, Hon. Cornelia Kruah, to exclude journalists from District #13 during her recent county tour.
The Association views this action as a show of disrespect to media professionals residing and working within the Minister’s own constituency.
Speaking to reporters in District #13 on Tuesday, the Chairman of the Association, Mr. Rufus Divine Brooks Jr., stated that the organization remains independent and committed to serving both the district and the nation, notwithstanding instances of marginalization by some public officials, including ministers and lawmakers.
“Minister Cornelia Kruah has been a public figure whose activities our members have consistently covered within the district, often without requesting compensation,” Chairman Brooks noted.
“Since her tenure at the Ministry of State and subsequent elevation to the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Minister has declined to collaborate with the District #13 Journalists Association.
Her recent actions, particularly the exclusion of district journalists from her county tour, reflect a pattern of disregard for local media practitioners.
The Association emphasizes that as an independent professional body, it upholds the principles of impartiality, accountability, and public service.
It therefore condemns the Minister’s actions and calls for the full inclusion and recognition of journalists within District #13 in all official engagements and communications.
The District #13 Journalists Association reaffirms its dedication to ethical journalism and urges all public officials to foster constructive, respectful relationships with the media as a cornerstone of transparency and democracy.
Signed: Lyndon Togba
Secretary, District #13 Journalists Association
Approved: Rufus Divine Brooks Jr.
Chairman, District #13 Journalists Association