Africa-Press – Liberia. Grand Gedeh County Superintendent Alex Grant has dismissed allegations linking him to a recent violent protest at Smile FM 98.6 radio station, asserting that the accusations are false and politically motivated.
The incident, which occurred on Monday, disrupted the station’s broadcasts and prompted police intervention to secure the premises and restore order. Protesters reportedly stormed the county-run station, demanding the resignation of Manager Solo Uriah Lewis, in line with a decision by a newly installed Board of Advisors.
In a telephone interview with FrontPage Africa, Superintendent Grant categorically denied instigating the unrest or directing officers to target journalists. “I am not a violent person and will never engage in violent acts. These claims are only intended to tarnish my reputation,” he said.
Grant confirmed he has engaged the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) to help mediate the growing dispute. “We’ve asked the PUL to come to Zwedru. They can’t just stay in Monrovia issuing statements—they need to understand the facts on the ground,” he said. PUL President Julius Kanubah is expected in the county on Friday.
The conflict stems from a leadership dispute at the station. The new Board, chaired by Madam Watchen Ophelia Boley, replaced Lewis with former Development Superintendent Randolph N. Saydee. However, Lewis has refused to step down, alleging that the move was politically driven by Superintendent Grant.
Grant maintains that the county administration was merely informed of the Board’s decision and has no role in its internal affairs. “Lewis refuses to accept the Board’s authority, and that’s fueling the tension,” he noted.
The Press Union of Liberia and the Association of Liberia Community Radio Stations (ALICOR) have both condemned the attack and called on local authorities to safeguard journalists in the county.
Meanwhile, Grant praised the Liberia National Police for protecting public infrastructure and broadcast equipment during the unrest. “Their intervention was necessary and lawful,” he said, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to peace and media freedom in the county.
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