The Association of Liberia Community Radios (ALICOR) has strongly condemned the suspension of Jerry Quoi, Manager of Radio Kakata FM 101.7, in Margibi County.
Quoi was suspended from his position as acting manager of the radio station, by Margibi County superintendent, Victoria Worlobah Duncan for time indefinite on June 21.
His suspension, according to the communication was on allegations of his constant refusal to recognize the authority as legitimate institution cloth with the responsibility to mitigate the conflict at the station, making the community radio a private operational station for his benefit. He was also alleged of being involved in financial malpractices, and disrespect to the workforce and members of the advisory board, among others.
Supt. Duncan also appointed a five-member acting leadership headed by a former worker of the station, Abraham L. Kollie, to act for three months followed by a ‘legitimate’ proceeding done by the Board of Advisors which requires the submission of applications for their respective positions regarding the management of the station.
She additionally warned the suspended station manager not to venture around the station’s facility any further as his failure to adhere to the communication would lead to his arrest for illegal trespass. Furthermore, Quoi is being requested to turn over all assets belonging to the station to its Board.
ALICOR has expressed deep concern over what it views as unwarranted interference in the station’s affairs.
The association emphasized that such actions undermine the independence and integrity of community radio stations, which are vital platforms for local voices. The suspension, according to ALICOR, disregards established protocols and governance structures of Radio Kakata.
In a statement released over the weekend, ALICOR President Hector Mulbah stated, “ALICOR strongly condemns the unlawful suspension of Manager Jerry Quoi by Superintendent Victoria Wolobah Duncan. This interference sets a dangerous precedent and threatens the autonomy of community radio stations in Liberia.”
“The reasons cited for Mr. Quoi’s suspension are outside the jurisdiction of the county superintendent and should be addressed through Radio Kakata’s Advisory Board. ALICOR demands the immediate reinstatement of Jerry Jenkins Quoi as Manager of Radio Kakata.”
ALICOR further warned against political interference in the operations of community radios across the country, asserting that such actions amount to censorship and hinder the democratic process in Liberia.
The association called on international partners, including Internews and ECOWAS, to take note of the situation and support efforts to uphold the independence of community radio stations across Liberia.
ALICOR says it is troubled by the continuous interference of political actors in the running of Radio Kakata since its founding in 2004 by the USAID funded Mercy Corps “Diompilor Program.”
“There should be no political interference in the running of the station as it is a community radio which should be the Voice of the people,” the statement said.
Radio Kakata, since its founding, has also been funded by USAID IREX project and currently by Internews.