KAKATA, Margibi County — The Inspector General of the Liberia National Police (LNP), Gregory O. W. Coleman, has clarified recent public discussions surrounding the institution’s global ranking, stressing the importance of accuracy, transparency, and accountability in official communication.
Speaking during the indoor celebration of World Press Freedom Day, organized by the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) in Kakata, Colonel Coleman addressed concerns over previously circulated information and reaffirmed the police’s commitment to truth.
Commitment to Truth and Public Trust
Opening his remarks, the Police Inspector General emphasized that truth remains central to the institution’s operations and its relationship with the public.
“We should know the truth, and the truth will set us all free,” Coleman stated, underscoring what he described as a new direction for the LNP—one that prioritizes honesty and accountability.
He noted that acknowledging errors is a necessary part of building public confidence in the police.
“When we recognize our wrongdoings, we recognize errors, we call it off for what it is. And it’s all part of the trust-building process,” he said.
Correction of Ranking Statement
Coleman revealed that the LNP recently reviewed and corrected a statement regarding its global ranking after discovering that the information had not been properly verified.
“After assessment of a statement that was made, we came back and we did the honorable thing because the sources were not verified,” he explained.
He acknowledged that established protocols for information dissemination were not fully followed, prompting the need for a formal correction.
“We did the honorable thing—what you journalists call erratum and corrigendum,” he added, referencing standard media practices for correcting published errors.
Reaffirming Institutional Accountability
The Police IG stressed that the decision to correct the statement reflects the LNP’s broader commitment to accountability and professional integrity.
“Nobody died—we corrected the error,” he remarked, signaling the institution’s willingness to admit mistakes rather than defend inaccurate information.
Observers say the move is a notable step toward improving transparency within the police force, particularly at a time when public trust remains a critical issue.
Press Freedom and Responsible Communication
Coleman’s remarks also highlighted the intersection between law enforcement and the media, emphasizing the importance of responsible communication by both institutions.
The World Press Freedom Day event brought together journalists, security officials, and development partners to reflect on the role of the media in promoting accountability, transparency, and democratic governance.
A Shift Toward Openness
The Inspector General concluded by reiterating that the LNP is committed to continuous improvement, including strengthening its communication processes and ensuring that information released to the public is accurate and properly verified.
His comments come amid broader efforts by the LNP to reform its operations, enhance professionalism, and rebuild public confidence.
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