By Mackie M. Jalloh
The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has renewed calls for stronger protections for journalists and accountability for crimes committed against members of the press, as the country joined the global commemoration of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists on November 3rd, 2025.
In a powerful statement marking the occasion, SLAJ emphasized that the safety of journalists remains a pressing concern in Sierra Leone, particularly in the face of online and physical harassment, intimidation, and threats that continue to hinder free expression. This year’s international theme—“Safety of Journalists in Crises and Emergencies”—echoes the growing challenges faced by reporters working under difficult conditions across the country.
While acknowledging progress made in recent years, including the landmark repeal of the Criminal and Seditious Libel Laws in 2020, SLAJ reminded the government and law enforcement authorities that freedom of the press is not secure until impunity for crimes against journalists is completely eradicated. “The repeal of criminal libel was a victory for democracy,” the Association noted, “but it must be matched with concrete actions to ensure the safety, dignity, and independence of those who report the truth.”
Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay Esq., reaffirmed the government’s stance on press freedom, stating that any attempt to silence journalists undermines democracy and peace. “A free press is crucial to sustaining our democracy,” he said. “We will continue reviewing existing laws and enacting new ones to strengthen the protection of journalists and ensure that press freedom thrives in Sierra Leone.”
SLAJ, however, raised fresh concerns about laws that may still threaten media independence, particularly Section 44 of the Cyber Security and Crime Act 2021. The Association reiterated its appeal for the government to review this section, which it argues could be misused to criminalize legitimate journalistic work. Additionally, SLAJ urged President Julius Maada Bio to withhold assent to the newly passed Counter Terrorism Act until all concerns raised by media and civil society organizations are fully addressed.
The Association is also pushing for deeper constitutional reforms to enshrine freedom of expression and communication rights in the supreme law of the land. SLAJ has proposed the inclusion of a new Chapter 12 in the draft Constitution, solely dedicated to press freedom and the protection of journalists—a move it believes would provide lasting guarantees for independent journalism in Sierra Leone.
In its ongoing collaboration with the security sector, SLAJ highlighted the progress made since the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in 2022 with the Sierra Leone Police, the Office of National Security (ONS), the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF), and the Correctional Service (SLCS). The agreement, which sought to improve relations between the media and law enforcement, is currently being reviewed to reflect present realities and challenges.
Inspector General of Police, William Fayia Sellu, has directed that all cases involving journalists be referred to the Independent Media Commission (IMC) or handled as civil defamation cases rather than criminal matters. “The Sierra Leone Police remains committed to protecting journalists and ensuring no journalist is unlawfully detained or intimidated for doing their job,” he said, reaffirming his institution’s support for the media.
SLAJ President, Alhaji Manika Kamara, used the commemoration to honor journalists who have lost their lives or suffered abuse in the line of duty. He stressed that ending impunity must become a national priority. “We remember our fallen colleagues and recommit to the fight against impunity,” Kamara said. “No journalist should be attacked, arrested, or silenced for doing their job. We call on government, civil society, and the public to stand with us in defending media freedom.”
The Association also praised its collaboration with the Media Reform Coordinating Group (MRCG) in developing a National Policy on the Safety and Security of Journalists and establishing a multi-stakeholder committee to monitor cases and promote accountability. The annual Press Freedom Report, jointly published by SLAJ and MRCG, continues to serve as an important accountability tool documenting violations, progress, and trends in the media landscape.
Despite these efforts, SLAJ cautioned that much work remains to be done. It urged law enforcement agencies to investigate attacks on journalists, the judiciary to expedite justice in pending cases, and media owners to prioritize the safety and welfare of their staff. The Association concluded by reaffirming its commitment to promoting ethical and professional journalism while calling for national unity to end impunity and protect those who speak truth to power.
