By Linus Flomo
One of the Inquirer’s 2024 personality, Information Minister Jerolinmek Piah has recognized the institution’s commitment to maintaining its credibility and professionalism.
“The current leadership is steering the institution well,” he said. “It’s not just about the vision and direction, but the ability to motivate and unify a team to keep the institution going. In Liberia’s media landscape, just as in government ministries and agencies, a capable leader is key to an organization’s survival and growth.”
Minister Piah reflected the significance of the Inquirer’s role in the media community and its steadfast dedication to integrity.
“It was important to be here because the Inquirer has built a solid reputation in the media community, one that we all respect. We all know the late Philip Wesseh’s work and his professional legacy. Even after Christiana took over as Managing Editor, she worked tirelessly to follow in his footsteps, ensuring that the paper remains true to the values he championed,” Piah emphasized.
The Information Minister also reflected on the challenges facing Liberia’s media industry, particularly the temptation for media outlets to succumb to financial pressures, blackmail, or biased coverage.
While many media institutions may fall prey to these temptations and with the proliferation of media institutions across the country, he underscored the Inquirer’s reputation for engaging into honest and unbiased journalism.
“One of the things that makes the Inquirer stands out is its authenticity,” he noted. “Even when it comes to recognizing individuals for their contributions, you don’t see the usual behind-the-scenes negotiations. With Inquirer, you’ll wake up to an article naming ‘personalities of the year,’ and you may not even know you’re being honored until you see it in their publication. That shows that this institution is remaining true to the professional foundation established by Philip Wesseh.”
He also spoke on the broader issue of media integrity, warning of the dangers of compromising one’s values for personal gain. “When you take the easy way out, blackmailing individuals or accepting bribes for favorable coverage, it may seem rewarding in the short term,” he said. “But that money can only buy you so much. Eventually, your reputation is tarnished, and no amount of wealth can restore it once it’s damaged beyond repair.”
Minister Piah went on to praise the leadership of the Managing Editor, emphasizing the importance of a strong leadership in maintaining the newspaper’s success.
He acknowledged the challenges that lie ahead, but expressed confidence that the Inquirer, under its current leadership, will continue to stand out as one of Liberia’s most credible and respected media institutions.
“We are all here to reflect, see what is working, and adjust where necessary,” the speaker said. “This is leadership in action, and I have no doubt that the Inquirer will continue to uphold the values that have made it one of the most respected media outlets in Liberia.”
The retreat, which was designed as a time for reflection and strategic planning, served as a reminder of the Inquirer’s commitment to journalistic excellence. Minister Piah expressed confidence in the newspaper’s continued success under its current leadership, despite the challenges that lie ahead.
Meanwhile, the institution has climaxed a three-day retreat designed as a time of reflection and re-calibration.
This strategic step is aimed at ensuring that The Inquirer remains on the right path in its pursuit of journalistic excellence.