Monrovia – The Press Union of Liberia (PUL) has honored the memories of two late journalists, Daniel Zayzay and James Paykoo, recognizing their invaluable contributions to the Liberian media landscape and their dedication to the journalism profession.
Daniel Zayzay, Station Manager of Peace FM in Harbel, Margibi County, died on May 25, 2025, at the age of 42 following a brief illness. For nearly two decades, he served his community through journalism, earning respect for his professionalism, commitment, and integrity.
James Paykoo, a retired broadcaster who worked with ELBC and Prime FM, passed away on June 7, 2026, at the age of 69 after a prolonged illness. With more than 30 years of service in the media, Paykoo was widely admired as a distinguished newscaster whose rich and commanding voice became familiar to audiences across Liberia.
As part of efforts to honor their legacies, a PUL delegation led by President Julius Kanubah visited the families of both journalists between June 14 and 15, 2026, in Paynesville and Harbel to extend condolences and solidarity.
The delegation that visited the Paykoo family included journalists Solo Urias Lewis and Jutonu Kollie, while the team that traveled to Harbel to meet the Zayzay family comprised Solo Urias Lewis, Howison Woah, Ebenezer Foley, and Emmanuel Lloyd.
During the visits, family members expressed appreciation to the PUL for recognizing the professional contributions of their loved ones and for standing with them during their time of grief.
In further recognition of Zayzay’s service to the profession, the PUL announced that it will open a book of condolence in his honor at Peace FM in Harbel on Friday, June 19, 2026, beginning at 11:00 a.m.
Funeral Arrangements
Daniel Zayzay
- Wake-keeping: Friday, June 19, 2026, in Harbel, Margibi County
- Funeral Service: Saturday, June 20, 2026, in Harbel, Margibi County
James Paykoo
- Funeral Service: Thursday, June 25, 2026, in Paynesville, Montserrado County
The PUL is calling on journalists, media and communication practitioners, friends of the media, and members of the public to join the bereaved families in honoring the lives and legacies of the two fallen journalists with a befitting farewell.
