George M.O. Williams
Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has expressed deep concern over the decision by the Speaker of the Parliament of Sierra Leone, Rt. Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas, to bar journalist Melvin Tejan Mansaray from accessing the precincts of Parliament. This action, reportedly based on allegations of “malicious criticism” of parliamentary decisions, has raised significant issues regarding press freedom and accountability in the country.
In a recent statement, SLAJ emphasized that while they acknowledge the Speaker’s concerns about journalistic standards, barring a journalist from covering parliamentary proceedings undermines the constitutional guarantee of freedom of expression and the press. SLAJ warned that such actions set a dangerous precedent and could erode public trust in Parliament’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
“We call on Parliament to reconsider this decision and refer the matter to SLAJ and the Independent Media Commission (IMC), as suggested by the Leader of Opposition, Hon. Abdul Kargbo. SLAJ is the professional body to address concerns regarding the professional conduct of journalists in the country while the IMC is the statutory body to regulate the conduct of the media,” the statement reads.
SLAJ has announced its intention to engage with the leadership of Parliament to better understand the circumstances surrounding this decision. Concurrently, SLAJ is launching an internal investigation to assess the allegations against Mansaray.
The association also urged all journalists to adhere to the highest ethical and professional standards in journalism. “At the same time, we remind public institutions of their duty to uphold the rights of journalists to report freely and without intimidation,” SLAJ stated.
This development highlights the ongoing challenges faced by journalists in Sierra Leone and underscores the importance of safeguarding press freedom and ensuring accountability within democratic institutions.