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Liberia Broadcasting System Issues Apology to Senator Kogar Over False Claims
The management of Liberia’s state-owned media entity, Liberia Broadcasting System (LBS), has issued a formal apology to Nimba County Senator Samuel G. Kogar following a broadcasting incident that spread false information about the lawmaker.
The controversy stemmed from news segments aired on October 4 and 6, 2025, during LBS language programs broadcast in Mano and Gio. According to the senator, language announcer Milton Gondoun falsely claimed that Kogar had “arranged to sell properties of the Late Senator Prince Y. Johnson,” a prominent political figure from Nimba County.
In his objection to the broadcast, Senator Kogar strongly condemned the reportage as “unfounded” and a “misrepresentation of fact,” emphasizing that the claims “lack substance of truth and constitute a gross mischaracterization of the facts.” The senator expressed serious concern about the damage to his public image, noting that citizens across Nimba County and beyond had expressed dismay over the allegations.
“The consequences of such erroneous reportage are not inconsequential,” Kogar stated in his formal complaint. He added that the fabricated claims were “injurious not only to my integrity, but also to my relationship with the Late Senator’s family and, by extension, the people of Nimba County that I have vowed to represent with utmost integrity.”
The matter underscores the sensitive political dynamics in Nimba County, where the late Senator Prince Johnson was a powerful and controversial figure for decades. Johnson, who passed away recently, maintained significant influence in the region’s politics, making any claims about the disposition of his assets particularly contentious.
In response to the senator’s complaint, LBS Director General Eugene L. Fahngon confirmed that the broadcasting system had conducted a thorough investigation through an independent three-member panel. Following their findings, LBS management took several remedial actions.
The broadcaster has formally removed the contentious segments from all LBS platforms and archives to prevent further circulation. Additionally, disciplinary measures have been implemented against staff members directly involved in producing and airing the report, citing violations of the institution’s editorial and ethical standards.
“LBS extends its sincere apologies to Honorable Samuel G. Kogar for the misinformation and any reputational injury caused by the broadcast,” stated the formal apology letter signed by Director General Fahngon. The statement further emphasized the organization’s “commitment to upholding the highest standards of professionalism, accuracy, and accountability” in its programming.
The incident highlights ongoing concerns about media ethics and accuracy in Liberia’s public broadcasting landscape. As the country’s state-owned media entity, LBS carries significant responsibility in providing factual information to citizens, particularly in local languages that reach rural populations who may have limited access to other news sources.
Senator Kogar has acknowledged the swift response from LBS management, commending the organization for “upholding the ethics of good journalism” and taking punitive action against the producer responsible for the false claims.
Media watchdogs in Liberia have frequently called for greater adherence to journalistic standards, particularly regarding verification of claims before broadcast. This incident serves as a reminder of the real-world consequences when media outlets fail to properly fact-check information, especially concerning public figures.
The relationship between Liberia’s political class and state media remains a delicate one, with concerns about independence and objectivity regularly surfacing. This case demonstrates both the potential for missteps and the importance of accountability mechanisms within public broadcasting institutions.
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8 Comments
This incident highlights the importance of media accountability and the need for robust fact-checking processes. Kudos to Senator Kogar for standing up against the false reporting.
Absolutely. Transparency and integrity in journalism should be paramount, especially when covering influential public figures.
Glad to see LBS taking responsibility and apologizing for the false claims. Reporting should be factual and unbiased, not spread misinformation that could damage public figures’ reputations.
Agreed. Media outlets have a duty to verify information before airing it, to avoid fueling unnecessary controversy.
This is a cautionary tale about the power of the media and the need for responsible reporting. I hope LBS takes steps to improve its editorial processes and regain public trust.
Agreed. The public deserves accurate, unbiased information, not sensationalized or fabricated stories that can harm individuals.
While the apology is a positive step, the incident raises broader questions about media ethics and the need for stronger accountability measures. Fact-checking and editorial oversight are essential.
It’s good that LBS apologized, but the damage to Senator Kogar’s reputation may already be done. Media outlets must be more careful to avoid such lapses in the future.