The Committee for U.S. International Broadcasting (CUSIB – cusib.org) Executive Director Ann Noonan issued a statement on the announced departure from Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) of its President and CEO Kevin Klose.
 

The independent and nonpartisan Committee for U.S. International Broadcasting (CUSIB – cusib.org) thanks Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) President and CEO Kevin Klose for returning to the organization in January 2013 during what was a very challenging time for journalists overseas, especially in Russia under President Putin.  Kevin Klose’s integrity set a standard for future RFE/RL leaders. While we are sorry to see him leave his post, we are grateful for his many years of service, this time and during his earlier tenure at RFE/RL, and his dedication to helping those without a voice to be heard. We are hopeful that Kevin Klose will maintain his relationships with the Broadcasting Board of Governors (BBG) and offer his advice and guidance as needed.

Former BBG member Victor Ashe, who serves on the CUSIB Advisory Board, also released a statement on Kevin Klose’s announced departure from RFE/RL.

“Kevin Klose rescued Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) from the dark days of the prior administration which almost caused a meltdown in the Moscow office and Prague as well. His contributions will be deeply appreciated. I wish him the best and urge the Board to move quickly for a strong transition.” Ashe said.

Ted Lipien, former Voice of America acting associate director and current director of the Committee for U.S. International Broadcasting (CUSIB – cusib.org) said that Klose was instrumental in saving Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty from a devastating management crisis and in restoring RFE/RL’s reputation and effectiveness. “His departure represents a great loss and a significant challenge for the Broadcasting Board of Governors (BBG),” Lipien said, but added that he “hopes the BBG under Chairman Shell will chose a good successor and continue reforms among all BBG entities, particularly at the International Broadcasting Bureau (IBB) and the Voice of America (VOA) in Washington, DC.”