By Hassan Osman Kargbo
The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has announced the postponement of its much-anticipated Elective Congress, originally scheduled for June 6–7, 2025. The Congress will now take place on June 13–14, 2025, at the same venue and time.
The decision to reschedule was made by the SLAJ Executive in consultation with the SLAJ Electoral Commission (SLAJEC), following the expectation that Friday, June 6, will be declared a public holiday in observance of Dunkay Sally Pray Day, a significant religious event in the country.
SLAJ President Ahmed Sahid Nasralla explained that the move was taken to ensure a smooth, inclusive, and uninterrupted Congress for all members. “We want to make sure that the Congress is accessible to everyone without religious or public holiday conflicts,” Nasralla said.
The Executive emphasized that while the dates have changed, all prior eligibility requirements and deadlines for participation in the elections remain unchanged. “We wish to emphasise that this change of date does not reopen the window for payment of dues or registration of new voters in relation to voting in the upcoming elections,” Nasralla stated. “All eligibility requirements and deadlines previously announced by the Executive and SLAJEC remain in effect.”
SLAJEC is expected to release a revised electoral timetable in the coming days to reflect the new Congress dates. The updated schedule will provide clarity on key electoral activities leading up to and during the rescheduled Congress.
The SLAJ Elective Congress is a major event in the country’s media landscape, held every three years to elect national and regional executive officers. The process is closely monitored by members, stakeholders, and civil society due to its implications for press freedom and media governance in Sierra Leone.
This year’s Congress is particularly significant, as it comes at a time of increased scrutiny on media professionalism and the role of journalists in supporting democratic governance. Members are expected to elect new leaders to guide the Association through the next phase of media development and reform in the country.
The Executive expressed regret over any inconvenience the postponement may cause but reiterated its commitment to an inclusive and orderly electoral process. “We understand that some members may have made travel or logistical arrangements, and we sincerely regret any disruption. However, this adjustment was necessary to accommodate national religious observances,” Nasralla said.
SLAJ has urged all members to remain engaged and to follow official communication from both the Executive and SLAJEC regarding updated election timelines and procedures.
With the new dates set, the stage is now reset for what is expected to be a highly competitive and consequential Congress. Candidates and delegates will now have an additional week to prepare for a vote that could shape the future direction of journalism in Sierra Leone.
