The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has issued a strong call for the Liberian authorities to take action against members of the Poro Society following the abduction and assault of journalist Alex Seryea Yormie on June 30. The incident occurred shortly after Yormie broadcasted a government directive that temporarily suspended the activities of the traditionalist group.

Yormie reported that he was forcibly taken, beaten, and endured hours of abuse while being shuffled between different locations. According to his statements, he was nearly forced into initiation rituals of the Poro Society, a procedure halted only by the government's suspension order.

In response to the incident, Melvin Duo, the General Culture Coordinator of Nimba County, was arrested on July 1. Charged with recklessly endangering someone, simple assault, and felonious restraint, Duo's legal proceedings are ongoing, highlighting the gravity of the situation and the need for accountability.

The Poro Society, an all-male secret society in Liberia, is known for its significant influence over customary practices in rural areas, including initiation rituals for young boys that involve traditional education and moral teachings. However, the society demands absolute secrecy from its members, backed by severe social penalties and threats of violence for breaches.

The Press Union of Liberia (PUL) has condemned the abduction, labeling it a severe infringement on press freedom and an unjust act of violence, even within the context of protecting cultural secrecy. This incident has ignited discussions about the role and influence of traditional secret societies like the Poro and its female counterpart, the Sande Society, which have been under scrutiny by human rights organizations for practices such as female genital mutilation (FGM) as part of their rituals.

Despite operating outside formal state control, Liberia is still bound by international human rights laws, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the UN Convention Against Torture. These obligations necessitate the prevention of torture and the safeguarding of free expression and journalist safety.

The global perspective on Liberia’s press freedom appears cautiously optimistic, as noted by Reporters Without Borders (RSF). Liberia's ranking improved in the 2024 Press Freedom Index, but the failure to thoroughly prosecute those who attack journalists remains a significant concern.

This incident underscores the ongoing challenges within Liberia regarding the balance between upholding traditional practices and respecting international human rights standards. The call by CPJ reinforces the urgent need for accountability and protection for journalists, ensuring that press freedom is preserved amidst Liberia's complex socio-cultural landscape.