By Forum staff writer
A Sierra Leonean based in the United States, Dr Adama Vandy Konneh, has formally objected to actions by the Independent Media Commission IMC compelling media houses to retract reports concerning the employment of Madam Grace Nollan Peloya at the Ministry of Social Welfare.
In a detailed statement issued in his personal capacity, Dr Adama Vandy Konneh placed the IMC on notice, describing the forced retractions as troubling and contrary to the commission’s statutory mandate to protect press freedom and uphold journalistic independence. His objection follows a recent retraction and apology published by Salone Compass Newspaper over reports linked to Madam Grace’s employment under the Ministry headed by Hon Minister Melrose Kaminty.
She stated that he possesses direct and internal knowledge of the circumstances surrounding Madam Grace Nollan Peloya’s engagement by the Ministry. He noted that Madam Grace is not new to Sierra Leone and has previously worked with several non-governmental organizations. According to him, her employment by the Ministry was publicly disclosed, widely reported by multiple media outlets, and openly shared by Madam Grace herself on social media. He argued that the publications in question were factual, verifiable, and made in the public interest.
The statement further raised concerns over Madam Grace’s citizenship status, alleging that she is not a citizen of Sierra Leone and may have unlawfully obtained Sierra Leonean identification documents. Dr Adama Vandy Konneh claimed that the issue was reportedly brought to the attention of the Director General, Mohamed Massaqoi, who initially promised an investigation. However, he said no outcome of such an investigation has been made public, fueling concerns that the matter may have been quietly dropped due to Madam Grace’s personal and professional relationship with the Minister.
She described the directive compelling Salone Compass Newspaper to retract its report as an act of administrative overreach. He questioned whether undue influence, selective enforcement, and suppression of media freedom were at play, stressing that the IMC should not be used to shield public officials from scrutiny.
He emphasized that allegations involving the employment of a non citizen using potentially fraudulent documentation are matters of national interest, especially in light of international visa restrictions currently facing Sierra Leone due to document fraud concerns.
In his notice, Dr Adama Vandy Konneh maintained that reporting on Madam Grace’s employment status constitutes legitimate public interest journalism. He warned that any attempt to censor, fine, or intimidate journalists over the matter would be improper and legally challengeable.
He further stated that any fines, sanctions, or punitive actions taken against media institutions in connection with the issue would be challenged before the High Court of Sierra Leone on grounds of abuse of regulatory authority, violation of press freedom, and failure to act in the public interest.
She called on the IMC to reconsider its position and act in line with its constitutional and statutory responsibilities, while expressing readiness to engage further if required.
