Monrovia-Storm is brewing at the Liberia Broadcasting System (LBS) as Director-General Eugene Fahngon faces clambering backlash for his abrupt dismissal of the institution’s Workers Union President Joseph Sayon.
By Willie N. Tokpah/0777039231
This unilateral decision taken by the state broadcaster’s Director Fahngon, perceived as an attack on employee rights, has ignited serious concerns about the state of governance and leadership within the national broadcaster, prompting their deputies to distance themselves from what they described as Fahngon’s “authoritarian decision.”
Deputy Director James Nagbe has condemned Fahngon’s actions, labeling them as indicative of a troubling autocratic management style.
In a recent communication, Nagbe stated that the dismissal stemmed from disputes over workers’ rights, thereby validating long-held criticisms against Fahngon’s leadership.
“This decision not only undermines the integrity of LBS but also jeopardizes its operational stability,” he asserted.
Another Deputy, Hassan Kiawu joined the chorus of disagreement, revealing that Fahngon had claimed the issue was solely his, dismissing any need for input from senior management.
“If you needed our input, you should have asked us,” Kiawu remarked.
He highlighted a concerning breakdown in collaborative governance that raises alarms about the overall decision-making process at LBS.
Adding to the resistance to the said decision, Alexandra Bainda Amnon, another Deputy, stated that she was never part of any meeting regarding Sayon’s dismissal.
“As a member of the Senior Management Team, I hereby disassociate myself from this decision,” she stressed, isolating Fahngon in the wake of growing opposition.
The opposing Deputies in a separate statement noted that Fahngon’s unilateral actions have not only signaled a disregard for collective leadership but also reflected a disturbing culture of intimidation within LBS.
According to them, the directive to remove Sayon from the payroll, without due process, raises questions about respect for workers’ rights and adherence to ethical management practices.
The LBS Workers Union, long critical of Fahngon’s approach, views this dismissal as retaliatory, aimed at silencing disagreement and undermining the voices of employees.
Sayon has been a staunch advocate for worker rights, making his removal a concerning signal of deteriorating workplace conditions.
Meanwhile, the implications for LBS are profound and the growing unity among deputies against Fahngon’s decision signals intense dissatisfaction with his leadership, casting doubt on the future of the state broadcaster.
The Deputies are now calling for immediate accountability and a reassessment of Fahngon’s management practices, as the LBS Workers Union called for the reinstatement of Sayon.
Furthermore, there are calls for a swift resolution that reaffirms the values of fairness and collaboration at LBS.