By Amin Kef (Ranger)
In its ongoing transition process, the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has embarked on a series of high-level courtesy visits to key partners in the media and communications sector. Led by Immediate Past President Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, popularly known as “De Monk,” the delegation formally introduced newly elected President Alhaji Manika Kamara and members of the incoming National Executive to key Government institutions.
The delegation’s first stop was the Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MoICE), where they met with Minister Chernor Bah at his Youyi Building office in Freetown. In his remarks, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla thanked the Minister for his support during his tenure and emphasized the importance of continued collaboration with the new SLAJ leadership.
“SLAJ has had a very productive and professional relationship with the Ministry over the last seven years,” Ahmed Sahid Nasralla said, referencing key achievements such as the repeal of the Criminal Libel Law, the hosting of the Media Investment Conference and the establishment of the National Fund for Public Interest Media (NaFPIM).
Ahmed Sahid Nasralla also used the occasion to present SLAJ’s official position paper advocating for the inclusion of a dedicated Chapter 12 in the country’s revised constitution. The proposed chapter seeks to enshrine press freedom and freedom of expression as fundamental constitutional rights. He urged the Minister to support the proposal, which has already been submitted to the Attorney General and Minister of Justice.
Newly elected SLAJ President Alhaji Manika Kamara echoed that appeal and expressed gratitude to Minister Chernor Bah for the Ministry’s longstanding support to the media.
“We commend the efforts this Government has made to empower the media,” Alhaji Manika Kamara stated. “We look forward to deepening that partnership and believe that Chapter 12 will be a significant milestone in strengthening press freedom and professionalism in Sierra Leone.”
Responding, Minister Chernor Bah praised Ahmed Sahid Nasralla for his leadership during what he described as a politically sensitive period and congratulated Alhaji Manika Kamara on his election.
“You’ve led SLAJ with integrity and balance, and that is commendable,” Minister Chernor Bah said. “We are committed to continuing our collaboration with SLAJ and we urge you to keep engaging stakeholders as you advocate for Chapter 12. The promotion of press freedom is a win for all of us.”
Minister Chernor Bah also announced that President Julius Maada Bio had signed off on the appointment of new commissioners for the Independent Media Commission (IMC), an effort that SLAJ had long supported.
The SLAJ delegation also visited the Independent Media Commission (IMC) and the National Telecommunications Authority (NaTCA), continuing their introductions and reinforcing partnerships.
At the IMC, Chairman Joseph Egbenda Kapuwa Esq. congratulated the new executive and emphasized the importance of unity and wisdom in leading SLAJ.
“It takes divine guidance to lead an institution like SLAJ. We trust this new leadership will maintain the values of the association and advance responsible journalism,” he said.
At NaTCA, Director General Amara Brewah welcomed the delegation and pledged continued collaboration, noting that the Authority remained committed to supporting the media’s growth and regulatory environment.
During the visits, SLAJ President Alhaji Manika Kamara raised serious concerns over recent developments involving Truth Media and G8 Media. He noted that the suspension of Truth Media’s license and delays in the spectrum allocation for G8 Media could undermine progress made in enhancing media freedom.
“These issues threaten to undo the achievements we’ve made in recent years,” Alhaji Manika Kamara warned. “We are calling for fair and prompt resolutions that uphold media rights while respecting regulatory processes.”
In response, Minister Chernor Bah and NaTCA DG Amara Brewah clarified that Truth Media’s suspension was linked to unpaid license fees and renewal issues, while G8 Media was still on a pending list awaiting spectrum allocation. Both officials assured SLAJ that the matters were being actively addressed and were nearing resolution.
SLAJ also paid a solidarity visit to Truth Media, where they engaged co-owner Amadu Lamrana Bah. He expressed frustration over the suspension but welcomed the reassurances provided by the Government and said he was willing to work toward a resolution.
The series of visits concluded with the presentation of appreciation awards to various institutions and individuals. Honourees included:
- Minister Chernor Bah, for his role on the SLAJ Gender Advisory Panel;
- The Ministry of Information and Civic Education, for consistent support to the media sector;
- The Independent Media Commission (IMC) and NaTCA, for their critical roles in media regulation and development.
The engagements reaffirm SLAJ’s commitment to defending press freedom, strengthening institutional partnerships and fostering a media environment rooted in professionalism and accountability.
