SLAJ Demands Stronger Protection for Journalists, End to Impunity
By Ibrahim Alusine Kamara
The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has called for stronger protection of journalists and an end to impunity for crimes committed against media practitioners, as the world marks the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists.
In a statement issued on Monday, 3rd November 2025, SLAJ joined the global community in honouring journalists who have risked or lost their lives in the pursuit of truth and accountability. The association said this year’s theme, “Safety of Journalists in Crises and Emergencies,” reflects the challenges faced by journalists in Sierra Leone amid increasing threats and intimidation.
SLAJ commended the Government for the repeal of the Criminal and Seditious Libel laws in 2020 and ongoing reforms to strengthen media freedom. However, it raised concerns over Section 44 of the Cyber Security and Crime Act 2021, describing it as a potential threat to press freedom, and urged President Julius Maada Bio not to sign the recently passed Counter Terrorism Act until all media-related concerns are addressed.
Attorney General Alpha Sesay reaffirmed government’s commitment, saying: “A free press is crucial to sustaining our peace and strengthening our democracy.”
SLAJ also noted progress made through the 2022 MoU between the media and security sector, with Inspector General of Police William Fayia Sellu instructing that cases involving journalists be referred to the Independent Media Commission rather than treated as criminal offences.
While commending ongoing collaborations with the Media Reform Coordinating Group (MRCG) and efforts to develop a National Policy on Journalist Safety, SLAJ stressed that impunity remains a major concern.
SLAJ President Alhaji Manika Kamara urged all stakeholders to stand with journalists: “No journalist should be attacked, arrested, or silenced for doing their job.”