By Sallieu S. Kanu
The new Board of Directors of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAWIJ) has terminated the interim Executive effective 1st August 2023 for breach of corporate governance principles.
The Board said in a statement on Monday that the decision to terminate the Interim Executive came after a thorough review of several serious matters related to corporate governance.
“The following are the key reasons that led to this action:
1. The current Executive have overstayed their mandate, contrary to the interim arrangements of six months.
2. Failure to maintain accurate and annual narrative and financial records including the dues paid by family members.
3. Non-disclosure of relevant donor funds to the Board of Directors, leading to a lack of transparency in financial matters.
4. Neglecting to adhere to internal financial controls and protocols.
5. Neglecting to produce annual audited reports since taking up office.
6. Disregarding corporate governance principles, including conflicts of interest and non-compliance in convening a meeting to finalize discussions of an annual general meeting. This role was temporary for six months until the holding of an AGM, which is long overdue.
7. Exhibiting behavior that may damage the reputation and integrity of our organization.
The new Board of Directors said that they are committed to maintaining the highest standards of accountability, transparency, and ethical conduct.
“The termination of the temporary Executive is not a decision taken lightly. Our organization is dedicated to serving our community and fulfilling our mission with utmost dedication and integrity. The actions taken are necessary to safeguard the trust placed in us by our stakeholders, donors, and the public,” the Board said in the statement.
“We assure you that steps are already underway to restore financial integrity, implement stronger governance measures, and ensure that all members fully comply with our policies and regulations. We will convene an Annual General meeting in the next few weeks to institute a new Executive. Meanwhile the new Board of Directors re-registered at Corporate Affairs will steer activities of SLAWIJ in the interim.”