The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) is calling on Liberian authorities to take action against members of the Poro Society following the abduction and assault of journalist Alex Seryea Yormie on June 30, 2023. Yormie was allegedly kidnapped shortly after he reported on a government directive suspending the activities of the traditionalist group. The incident, which has raised alarms about press freedom in Liberia, involved Yormie being forcibly taken into a vehicle, beaten, and subjected to hours of mistreatment.
Yormie’s troubling experience began after he aired a report about the government’s suspension of the Poro Society’s activities. According to his account, he received a summons from Melvin Duo, the General Culture Coordinator of Nimba County, who questioned him about his broadcast. After declining to comply, Yormie was abducted. He was moved between various locations, where he claimed he was nearly subjected to initiation rituals associated with the Poro Society, but these were interrupted by the government order prohibiting such activities.
On July 1, 2023, authorities arrested Duo in connection with the abduction. He was later charged on July 14, 2023, with recklessly endangering someone, simple assault, and felonious restraint. As the case progresses, CPJ’s appeal emphasizes the necessity of holding accountable those responsible for such attacks on journalists and ensuring their protection from retaliatory violence.
Duo has acknowledged the abduction but has denied the allegations of physical abuse, stating instead that Yormie was being initiated into cultural practices. Medical assessments confirmed that Yormie required immediate attention for visible injuries sustained during the ordeal.
Concerns Over Tradition and Human Rights
The Poro Society is a traditional all-male secret society in Liberia, known for enforcing customary norms through initiation rituals held in secluded areas. These practices, often involving young boys, are aimed at instilling moral and spiritual values. Membership requires an oath of secrecy, and breaking this oath reportedly results in social penalties or even threats of violence.
The Press Union of Liberia (PUL) has condemned the incident, labeling it a grave violation of press freedom and an unacceptable act of violence, even in the context of cultural traditions. While the Poro Society operates outside formal state control, it is increasingly scrutinized by human rights organizations.
The United Nations Mission in Liberia has reported that over half of Liberian women undergo female genital mutilation (FGM) as part of rituals conducted by the female counterpart, the Sande Society, often performed without anesthesia. Despite these societal practices, Liberia is bound by international human rights obligations to prevent torture and protect journalists’ rights, as outlined in various treaties.
Press Freedom and Global Standards
According to Reporters Without Borders (RSF), Liberia is ranked 54 out of 180 countries in its 2024 World Press Freedom Index, an improvement from its 60th position in 2023. While progress has been noted in access to information, the organization highlights the ongoing failure of Liberian authorities to effectively prosecute attacks against journalists as a significant concern.
In light of these developments, CPJ’s call for justice not only seeks to address Yormie’s case but also aims to reinforce the broader commitment to safeguarding press freedom in Liberia. The path forward will require a concerted effort from both governmental and societal sectors to protect journalists from threats and uphold the principles of free expression.
