LBS Worker Union gives Eugene Fahngon 72 hours to rescindautocratic leadership
By Kebek Sammie
In a heated press conference, workers led by Mr. JosephSayon have raised serious allegations against Eugene Fahngon, the Director General of the Liberia Broadcasting System (LBS). They claim he has been enslaving employees and threatening their job security. The workers expressed their grievances, stating that Fahngon has not only increased his weekly allowances but has also fostered a culture of fear and intimidation within the workplace.
LBS Workers Union voiced serious concerns regarding the leadership of Director-General Eugene L. Fahngon, claiming his management style has led to a decline in staff morale and organizational effectiveness. The union outlined various grievances, detailing a troubling environment characterized by intimidation, poor administrative practices, and a lack of support for employees’ welfare.
Union representatives expressed their disappointment, highlighting that Director Fahngon had initially promised to uplift the organization, which they believe has not materialized. Instead, they accused him of perpetuating a “draconian” regime that stifles freedom of speech and undermines the progress made by previous administrations.
“The past administration kept employees of LBS enslaved, and Fahngon has come to take them for slavery,” a union spokesperson declared, referring to Fahngon’s controversial assertion that he would transform the institution. The union argues that instead of fostering a culture of innovation and creativity, Fahngon’s autocratic leadership has created a hostile work environment, leading to psychological stress among employees.
The union further criticized Fahngon for canceling traditional events, such as the annual placement party for children, without consulting staff or management. They pointed to ongoing construction work as an excuse for these decisions, which they argue is merely a cover for deeper administrative issues.
Tragically, the impact of this leadership style has been severe, with reports of employees suffering from work-related stress and, in some cases, tragically passing away due to health complications exacerbated by workplace conditions.
Sayon addressed the media and fellow workers, emphasizing the need for unity against what they perceive as abusive leadership. “We are being subjected to hardship and profited upon,” Pauli declared. He criticized the relationship between Fahngon and President Joseph Ynuma Boakai, alongside Information Minister Jerrenimich Pieh., suggesting that it has created an environment where workers’ rights are continuously undermined.
Asserting that the union has been proactive in caring for ailing colleagues, representatives condemned Fragon for neglecting workers’ benefits while focusing on increasing his financial allowances. They accused him of running a “one-man show” and utilizing fear tactics to suppress dissent among employees.
In a decisive move, the union has issued a 72-hour ultimatum for Fahngon to address their demands, which include restoring employee benefits, ceasing intimidation practices, and ensuring a safe and respectful workplace. Failure to comply will lead the union to declare a vote of no confidence in Fahngon’s leadership.
“Enough is enough,” declared Joseph Sayon, the union representative. “We will not sit idly by as our rights are abused. We demand labor justice and will take action if our grievances are not addressed.”
In response to the allegations, the Director General, Mr.Eugene Fahngon, has announced a media address scheduled for tomorrow, Friday, at 2:30 PM on the LBS compound. He stated, “I will address the media on the false allegations made against me with physical and material evidence.” This upcoming press conference will likely be pivotal in clarifying the ongoing conflict between Fahngon and the disgruntled workers.
Eugene L. Fahngon was nominated for the position by President Joseph Boakai on February 7, 2024. Previously, he served as Deputy Minister of Information under President Weah and was later relieved of his post for administrative reasons. Many speculated that it was due to how he “Recklessly” spoke on some critical issues. In 2023, Fahngon switched allegiance to the Unity Party after being dismissed. Since he took office, Fahngon’s leadership has come under fire. Workers expressed their grievances during a press conference at the LBS compound on Thursday.
The union has expressed its commitment to resolve these issues through dialogue but has made it clear that it will not engage with Fahngon unless he rescinds the decisions that have led to the current unrest.
The workers’ determination to stand against perceived injustices highlights the growing unrest in the workplace, with many feeling that their voices have been stifled for too long. As the situation unfolds, all eyes will be on Fahngon’s response and the implications it may have for the future of the Liberia Broadcasting System.
As the situation unfolds, the Workers Union is calling on the broader Liberian community and the government to take notice of their plight, emphasizing the need for accountability and humane treatment within the national broadcaster.
