The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has commended the Judiciary, under the leadership of Honourable Chief Justice Komba Kamanda, following approval for the live broadcast of the forthcoming Supreme Court hearing on constitutional matters scheduled for Wednesday, 7 October 2026.
SLAJ welcomed the decision on Monday, 5 October 2026, describing it as an important step towards promoting transparency, widening public access to justice and recognising the critical role of journalists in keeping citizens informed on matters of national importance.
The approval followed a formal request submitted by SLAJ to the Judiciary on 21 September 2026, seeking permission for the proceedings to be broadcast live in the public interest, considering the national significance of the constitutional matters before the Supreme Court.
According to SLAJ, the Judiciary approved the live coverage subject to conditions designed to protect the dignity, decorum and integrity of the Court throughout the proceedings.
Under the approved arrangement, 10 media houses will be accredited to cover the proceedings from inside the courtroom. SLAJ will work closely with the Sierra Leone Court Reporters Association (SLCRA) and the Judiciary’s Communications and Public Affairs Unit to coordinate the media coverage and ensure compliance with the conditions set by the Court.
Journalists who are not among the accredited media houses, as well as members of the public, will be able to follow the proceedings live through major television networks from their offices and homes.
Following a special appeal by SLAJ to the Judiciary, the Independent Radio Network (IRN) has also been granted approval to broadcast the proceedings live through its network of more than 40 radio stations across Sierra Leone, further expanding public access to the hearing.
SLAJ said the approval demonstrates the Judiciary’s recognition of the important role journalists and media institutions play in informing the public and promoting transparency and accountability within the justice system.
The Association further described the decision by Honourable Chief Justice Komba Kamanda as reflecting a commitment to transparency, accountable leadership and greater public access to justice, while ensuring that the authority and integrity of the Supreme Court are preserved.
However, the Judiciary has imposed clear conditions on the live coverage. Media houses and journalists have been directed not to provide commentary, analysis or other statements concerning the merits or demerits of the constitutional matter while the case remains sub judice.
Still photography will also not be permitted inside the courtroom during the proceedings.
SLAJ has therefore called on all participating media houses and journalists to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, accuracy, impartiality and responsibility in their coverage, while respecting the authority, dignity and decorum of the Court.
The Association expressed appreciation to the Judiciary for facilitating wider public access to proceedings of significant constitutional importance and for acknowledging the media’s role in strengthening public understanding of the justice system.
SLAJ pledged to continue working closely with the Judiciary’s Communications and Public Affairs Unit, the Sierra Leone Court Reporters Association and accredited media houses to ensure that the live coverage is conducted in an orderly and professional manner and in full accordance with the conditions established by the Court.
