INDEPENDENT MEDIA COMMISSION
3rd Floor, Kissy House
54 Siaka Stevens Street
Freetown
E-mail: info@imc.gov.sl 076-724-854 / 076-695-950
PRESS RELEASE
IMC Holds Complaints Hearing on Ethnicity Remarks Involving Radio Democracy
Freetown, 21st May 2025 – The Independent Media Commission (IMC) has held a formal complaint hearing with Radio Democracy 98.1 FM in relation to a broadcast of its flagship programme ‘Good Morning Salone’ aired on Monday, 19th May 2025. The hearing focused on allegations of tribal remarks made during the programme by a guest, who is a member of the Public Relations Team of the All People’s Congress (APC).
During the hearing, the Board Chairman of Radio Democracy, Dr. Julius Spencer, acknowledged that the broadcast in question was a mistake on the part of the radio station. He stated that the management of Radio Democracy has since taken appropriate internal steps to prevent a recurrence of such incidents, including strengthening editorial oversight and presenters’ training. Dr. Spencer further appealed to the IMC to support the media sector through targeted training for media institutions on how to handle programmes in line with best practices as set out in the IMC Act of 2020 and Media Regulations of 2022.
The hearing was chaired by Commissioner Sidikie Tommy Esq, and was attended by the IMC Chairman, Joseph E. Kapuwa Esq. In his remarks, Commissioner Tommy warned that media institutions must exercise the highest level of care when handling sensitive programmes, particularly when political party representatives are invited as guests.
The Committee reiterated the obligation of media houses to act responsibly and uphold national peace and cohesion. It emphasized that presenters and producers must serve as anchors who maintain full control over the content of their broadcasts, whether on radio, television, or online platforms. Allowing divisive and inflammatory rhetoric under the guise of political commentary, the Committee noted, is unacceptable and contrary to professional standards.
The Commission therefore calls on all Media houses to understand the significant responsibility they bear; noting that the content they broadcast plays a critical role in shaping public opinion and preserving national cohesion. The IMC is committed to safeguarding Sierra Leone’s democratic values by holding the media accountable for promoting peace, unity, and professionalism in their broadcasts.
The IMC will continue to engage with media institutions across the country to uphold ethical broadcasting standards and to ensure the media remains a tool for unity, development, and informed public discourse.
Khalil Kallon
Executive Secretary—IMC
