Freetown, Sierra Leone – January 10, 2025 – The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has expressed deep concern over the recent decision by the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas, to bar journalist Melvin Tejan Mansaray from accessing Parliament’s premises.
The ban, reportedly issued due to allegations of “malicious criticism” of parliamentary decisions, has been described by SLAJ as a troubling development for press freedom and accountability in the country.
In a press release issued on January 10, SLAJ called on Parliament to reconsider its stance and instead refer the matter to the Independent Media Commission (IMC) and SLAJ itself.
Alhaji Manika Kamara, SLAJ’s National Secretary General, stated, “Barring a journalist from covering parliamentary proceedings undermines the constitutional guarantee of freedom of expression and the press. This decision sets a dangerous precedent that could erode public trust in Parliament’s commitment to transparency and accountability.”
While acknowledging the importance of journalistic ethics, SLAJ emphasized that it is the professional body responsible for addressing concerns about the conduct of journalists, while the IMC oversees media regulation. SLAJ also highlighted the suggestion by Hon. Abdul Kargbo, the Leader of the Opposition, to involve the IMC and SLAJ in resolving the issue.
“We are ready to engage with Parliament’s leadership to understand the circumstances surrounding this decision,” Kamara added. “At the same time, we are launching an internal investigation to assess the allegations against Mansaray.”
SLAJ urged journalists across the country to maintain the highest standards of professionalism and ethics in their reporting while calling on public institutions to respect the rights of the press to operate freely and without intimidation.
The association reaffirmed its commitment to defending press freedom and fostering responsible journalism in Sierra Leone, a stance that it sees as vital to the nation’s democratic values.
