By Amin Kef (Ranger)
In a concerning development for press freedom in Sierra Leone, renowned journalist Thomas Dixon has reportedly gone missing following alarming threats from the Inspector-General of Police, William Fayia Sellu. Dixon’s disappearance has sparked outrage among civil society advocates and fellow journalists, who emphasize the vital importance of media freedom in a democratic society.
Dixon’s disappearance comes on the heels of a critical X and Facebook post in which he accused the IGP of rescinding a court bail and transferring the crime officer involved.
Augustine Sorie-sengbe Marrah, a prominent civil and commercial litigator and democracy activist, condemned the situation, stating, “If the unconfirmed reports are true that Thomas Dixon is in hiding or held up incommunicado, then this is like rolling back the hands of progress.” Marrah criticized the government’s contradictory actions of repealing criminal seditious libel laws while simultaneously repressing journalists. “Journalists should not be on the run because of their work,” he asserted.
The Gleaner Newspaper reported that Dixon’s family has not heard from him since the threats emerged, deepening fears for his safety. Efforts to contact the IGP for comment have been unsuccessful, further escalating concerns regarding the treatment of journalists in Sierra Leone.
Alex Lawrence Koroma, a fellow broadcast and print journalist, urged the government, under President Julius Maada Bio, to prioritize the safety of Dixon and uphold his rights to engage in professional journalism. “It is concerning that he has been reported missing while fulfilling his journalistic duties. Immediate action is necessary,” Koroma stated.
In a recent post, Dixon detailed a phone conversation with the IGP, in which he was told to put his concerns in writing rather than receiving direct answers. “The arrogant IGP told me on the phone that I should write instead of answering my questions,” Dixon remarked. He alleged that the IGP rescinded a bail for a suspect at the West End Police Station and subsequently transferred the crime officer handling the case, creating a chilling atmosphere among police officers who are now hesitant to engage with the matter.
This troubling incident raises significant questions about media freedom in Sierra Leone, with Marrah emphasizing, “Media freedom is not a favor—it is an integral aspect of democracy.” He called for respect and protection of journalists’ rights, insisting that “freedom of expression and the media cannot wait and must not be delayed in any democracy.”
As the situation develops, the safety of Thomas Dixon and the broader implications for press freedom in Sierra Leone remain a pressing concern. Journalists are not criminals, and their right to report should be protected.
