LEGISPOOL Concerned Over Safety of DN News Reporter After Remarks by Senator Snowe Capitol Hill, Monrovia – The Leadership of the Legislative Press Pool (LEGISPOOL), the official body that coordinates and represents accredited journalists covering the Liberian Legislature, has expressed grave concern over remarks made by Bomi County Senator Edwin Melvin Snowe, which appeared to directly target a member of the press, potentially endangering his safety.
During the 30th Day Sitting of the Liberian Senate on Thursday, June 19, 2025, Senator Snowe publicly singled out Mr. George Cooper—DN News Liberia’s assigned legislative reporter—during a debate on the Cybercrime Act of 2021. The Senator, while speaking on the importance of passing the proposed legislation, pointed directly at Mr. Cooper and referenced a previously published video by DN News, which he alleged was doctored to misrepresent his comments.
Although DN News promptly removed the video and issued a public apology upon recognizing the controversy and in adherence to professional standards, Senator Snowe revisited the matter on the Senate floor. His decision to name and visually identify the reporter on live camera, despite acknowledging the outlet’s apology, is deeply troubling and has raised significant safety concerns.
Press Freedom and Journalist Safety
LEGISPOOL considers Senator Snowe’s actions an unfortunate attempt to publicly embarrass a journalist and a media institution that had already demonstrated accountability. Such conduct by a senior lawmaker sends a dangerous signal to the press community and may provoke hostility against the reporter, particularly from individuals who are emotionally or politically aligned with the Senator.
Journalists operating at the Capitol Building do so under challenging conditions to ensure that the public remains informed about legislative activities. They must not be subjected to threats, intimidation, or public rebuke that could expose them to personal risk or hinder their ability to carry out their duties objectively and without fear.
Call for Responsibility and Protection
While reaffirming its commitment to ethical and professional journalism, LEGISPOOL urges all public officials, especially those in positions of influence, to exercise restraint in their public commentary toward journalists. Words have power, and public statements—particularly those made in emotionally charged settings—can have unintended consequences for those who are targeted.
In this light, LEGISPOOL calls on the Senate leadership and relevant authorities to ensure the safety of Mr. George Cooper and all other accredited reporters covering the Legislature. Should anything unfortunate happen to Mr. Cooper as a result of this public outburst, LEGISPOOL will hold Senator Snowe fully accountable.
Commitment to Ethical Journalism
LEGISPOOL remains steadfast in providing responsible leadership for its members and in championing a media environment grounded in accountability, professionalism, and press freedom. We encourage all our members to continue upholding the highest ethical standards in their work and to avoid being drawn into political crossfire.
We also encourage continued national and international attention to this matter, as the safety of journalists is essential to sustaining Liberia’s democratic values and institutional transparency.
Signed: Blamo N. Toe
Secretary-General, LEGISPOOL
+231-880-320-363/+231-775-963-245
Approved: Gerald C. Koinyeneh
President, LEGISPOOL
+231-880-881-540
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