Maryland, Liberia; September 29, 2025 – In the midst of critical and logical journalists, NEW DAWN’s Maryland County Correspondent, Patrick N. Mensah, has been elected President of the Maryland County Press Association ( MAPA).
Reporter Mensah, who has been practicing journalism for over 13 years now, ran a successful campaign on a promise to bring transparency and accountability to the Association in the county.
His experience and background as a station manager have given him a unique perspective on issues facing the media community, and he has vowed to use his experience to bring about positive changes.
Upon hearing the news of his victory, Mensah said, “I am incredibly humbled and honored to be chosen by critical journalists of the county to lead our association. I will work tirelessly to fulfill my promises and serve the press of this great county.”
His election has been met with widespread celebration and hope for a brighter future. Many of his colleagues have praised him for his role in exposing corruption among journalists and reporting on critical issues.
With his new role as county president, Mensah has promised to continue his work as a critical journalist, in keeping the public informed and holding government accountable.
He emphasized that the historic win demonstrates his commitment to effective leadership and his hope for genuine change, noting that it will serve as a reminder that anyone, regardless of their background, can make a difference.
The most widely discussed election took place at Pleebo City Hall on Saturday, September 27, 2025, drawing journalists from across the county.
The Independent Election Committee, chaired by Henry Kolenkey, commended the journalists of Maryland County for their exemplary conduct throughout the election, while urging them to continue fostering peace among their ranks.
He said that although ample time was allotted for individuals to submit their applications for various positions, namely, President, Vice President, Secretary General, Financial Secretary, and Treasurer, only three candidates emerged.
He identified Patrick N. Mensah as the sole applicant for the presidency, Christopher Tarwily as the vice-presidential candidate, and Peter P. Toe, Jr., as Secretary General, with the posts of Financial Secretary and Treasurer uncontested.
Mr. Kolenkey noted that the electoral process was conducted in a free, fair, and transparent manner. Still, he expressed bewilderment as to why other journalists did not seize the opportunity to participate.
The IEC chairperson implored the newly elected officials to uphold the spirit of peace and to continue keeping the community informed.
In his remarks, the outgoing president and correspondent for the Liberia News Agency, Joe Langston Wilson, lauded the Independent Election Committee for the peaceful execution of the election and pledged to form a special committee for the induction ceremony.
He praised the collaboration and cooperation of the Maryland County Managers Association and vowed to work closely with the newly elected officials of the Maryland Association of Public Administrators (MAPA).
“I would like to extend my gratitude for the peaceful conduct of the election. Although there were no contenders, we firmly believe the process was transparent and equitable,” he emphasized. Editing by Jonathan Browne
