Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. The newly elected Executive of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists [SLAJ], led by former President Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, has conducted courtesy visits to three distinguished former Presidents: Alhaji Ibrahim Ben Kargbo, Umaru Fofana, and Kelvin Lewis.
The visits aimed to formally introduce the new Executive, acknowledge the significant contributions of the former Presidents to SLAJ’s legacy, and seek their continued guidance and support. Nasralla emphasised the importance of recognising those who have shaped the Association’s direction, stating, “It is both an honour and a duty to recognise the shoulders we stand on.”
He also invited the former leaders to actively participate in the SLAJ Elders Council, aiming to institutionalise its role within the Association’s governance.
Accompanying Nasralla, SLAJ President Alhaji Manika Kamara expressed gratitude for the hospitality extended by the veteran media leaders. He reiterated his commitment to an inclusive administration and acknowledged the positive influence the past Presidents had on his journalistic journey.
“I hold you in very high esteem,” President Kamara stated. “My Executive is committed to upholding your legacy and charting our own path, with your blessings and guidance.”
Alhaji I.B. Kargbo, SLAJ President from 2004 to 2007, praised the tradition of courtesy visits, calling it a sign of SLAJ’s democratic maturity. He commended the smooth transitions of power and emphasized the need to strengthen membership structures through ID cards.
Umaru Fofana, who led SLAJ from 2008 to 2013, highlighted the Association’s democratic culture and stressed the importance of ongoing training for journalists. He called for better safety measures for media workers, referencing the recent tragic deaths of David Williams and S.U. Thoronka.
Kelvin Lewis, President from 2014 to 2019, expressed his delight at the visit and acknowledged the growing prestige of SLAJ through formal awards. He advised the new Executive to prepare for challenges and remain open to counsel.
The visits concluded with the presentation of Appreciation Awards by Nasralla to the former Presidents, symbolizing SLAJ’s commitment to institutional memory and unity as it continues to defend press freedom and raise professional standards. Future engagements will include introducing the new Executive to key stakeholders, including His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio.
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