Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. As the world observes the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) joins the global community in honoring the courage and sacrifice of journalists who have paid the ultimate price in the pursuit of truth and accountability.
This year’s theme, “Safety of Journalists in Crises and Emergencies,” resonates deeply with our experiences in Sierra Leone. In recent years, journalists have faced threats, harassment, and intimidation—both online and offline—for simply performing their duty: informing the public and holding power to account.
SLAJ commends the Government of Sierra Leone for the historic repeal of the Criminal and Seditious Libel laws in 2020, a landmark achievement in our democratic journey. We also acknowledge the Government’s continued commitment to press freedom through reforms led by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education and the Office of the Attorney General and Minister of Justice.
The Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay Esq., reaffirmed this commitment, stating:
“A free press is crucial to sustaining our peace and strengthening our democracy. Subjecting journalists to unlawful attacks and using draconian laws to stifle journalists is an attack on press freedom. That is why we will review existing laws and enact new ones that protect journalists and press freedom in Sierra Leone.”
SLAJ continues to advocate for the review of Section 44 of the Cyber Security and Crime Act 2021, which poses potential threats to press freedom and freedom of expression. The Association has also called on His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio not to sign the recently passed Counter Terrorism Act until all critical concerns raised by the media and civil society are addressed.
At the same time, SLAJ is actively engaged in the Constitutional Review Process, calling for the inclusion of a new Chapter 12 dedicated to Freedom of Expression, Press Freedom, and Communication Rights—to provide lasting constitutional guarantees for media freedom in Sierra Leone.
Following the repeal of the criminal libel law, SLAJ and the Security Sector—including the Office of National Security (ONS), Sierra Leone Police (SLP), Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), and Sierra Leone Correctional Service (SLCS), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in 2022 to improve relations between journalists and law enforcement. This MoU is currently under review to reflect new realities and commitments.
The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. William Fayia Sellu, has issued clear instructions that all cases involving journalists, whether under the Cyber Security and Crime Act or in the line of duty, should be referred to the Independent Media Commission (IMC) or pursued as civil defamation matters rather than criminal offenses. The updated MoU to formalize these commitments will be signed shortly.
“The Sierra Leone Police remain committed to protecting journalists and ensuring that no journalist is unlawfully detained or intimidated for doing their job. Our partnership with SLAJ is built on mutual respect for the law and a shared goal of promoting peace, accountability, and democracy,” Said IGP William Fayia Sellu
In partnership with the Media Reform Coordinating Group (MRCG) and other stakeholders, SLAJ has spearheaded the development of a National Policy on the Safety and Security of Journalists and the establishment of a National Multi-Stakeholder Coordinating Committee on journalist safety. These initiatives aim to ensure accountability, monitor violations, and strengthen institutional response mechanisms.
SLAJ and MRCG also collaborate annually to publish the Press Freedom Report, which documents violations, progress, and trends in Sierra Leone’s media landscape. This serves as a vital accountability tool for the industry and policymakers.
Additionally, SLAJ has conducted numerous trainings nationwide on ethical journalism, digital security, conflict-sensitive reporting, gender-sensitive reporting, and fact-checking to enhance professionalism and prevent journalists from falling afoul of the law.
Despite progress, impunity for crimes against journalists remains a serious concern. SLAJ therefore calls on:
Law enforcement agencies to thoroughly investigate all reported attacks against journalists and bring perpetrators to justice.
The Judiciary to expedite cases involving crimes against journalists.
The Government to implement robust protection mechanisms for journalists, particularly during elections and crises.
Media owners and editors to prioritize staff safety, welfare, and adherence to ethical standards.
SLAJ President, Alhaji Manika Kamara, affirmed:
“As we mark this global day, we remember our fallen colleagues and recommit ourselves to the fight against impunity. No journalist should be attacked, arrested, or silenced for doing their job. We call on all stakeholders—government, security agencies, civil society, and the public—to stand with us in defending media freedom and protecting those who speak truth to power.”
As we commemorate this important day, SLAJ reaffirms its unwavering commitment to defend press freedom, protect journalists, and promote ethical, professional journalism in Sierra Leone. Together, let us work to end impunity and build a society where journalists operate in safety, dignity, and independence.
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