Monrovia, Liberia — The Developmental Reporters Network (DREN) has commended Grand Kru County Senator Numene T. H. Bartekwa following the appointment of former DREN Secretary General and Secretary General of the Ministry of Information Reporter Network (MIRNET) Desmond Gbeleh Wion, as the new Public Relations Officer for the Senator’s office.
The appointment, which officially took effect on June 1, 2026, has been hailed by the media watchdog group as a significant win for media professionalism and merit-based placement in public service. Senator Bartekwa currently serves as the Chairperson of the Grand Kru County Legislative Caucus.
A Transition from Grassroots Journalism to Public Service
In a statement signed by DREN Chairman John Sackie Zayzay, the network expressed deep appreciation to the Senator’s office, viewing the appointment as a clear recognition of integrity and ethical journalism.
“This appointment is a powerful statement of confidence in media professionalism, integrity, and diligent public service,” Zayzay noted. “DREN views this decision as a recognition of merit and a celebration of ethical journalism transitioning into accountable governance.”
Mr. Wion brings a wealth of mainstream media experience to his new role in the Legislature. Over his career, he has worked across several prominent Liberian media outlets, including SEAL FM, ABC Radio, Voice of Liberia, Angel TV and the Democracy Watch Newspaper.
During his tenure as Secretary General of DREN, Wion was instrumental in mobilizing young reporters across Liberia to focus on development-oriented journalism.
Combatting Misinformation Through Strategic Communication
DREN praised Senator Bartekwa’s decision as a “strategic and people-centered” move. The network highlighted that selecting a communicator with deep roots in grassroots reporting reflects a commitment to transparency, especially at a time when the spread of misinformation poses a challenge to public trust.
According to DREN, Wion’s background will ensure that Grand Kru County’s legislative actions, community development initiatives, and public engagements are communicated clearly and accessibly to citizens.
Looking Ahead
As Wion transitions from the newsroom to public service, DREN has pledged its continued collaboration with the Grand Kru County Senatorial office to promote equitable information flow and strengthen public trust.
“We are confident he will carry out his duties with professionalism, empathy, and the highest ethical standards,” the statement concluded, adding that the appointment serves as an inspiration for other young Liberian journalists looking to serve their country with diligence.
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