The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has today met with the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay Esq., to discuss the inclusion of a standalone chapter on media freedom and freedom of expression in the ongoing constitutional review process.
In his opening remarks, SLAJ President thanked the Minister for his audience and acknowledged progress made in legal reforms, including the repeal of the seditious libel law. He emphasized SLAJ’s commitment to working with the government and other stakeholders to strengthen press freedom and free expression through constitutional guarantees.
The SLAJ President presented his association’s Proposed Charter on Media Freedom and Free Expression, highlighting the need for a dedicated constitutional provision to safeguard against future threats.
Key proposals include:
1. A standalone Chapter 12 on media freedom, free expression, and access to information.
2. Protection from government interference in journalism.
3. A clear prohibition of prior censorship or media shutdowns.
4. Legal independence of media regulatory bodies.
5. Stronger guarantees for access to public information and protection of journalists’ sources.
6. Safety and security of journalists.
The Attorney General outlined the historical context of the constitutional review process, noting that it dates back to the Lome Peace Accord and has undergone multiple consultations and reviews. He stated that while the process effectively closed in 2021, there is still room for new proposals and that SLAJ’s engagement was a strategic approach to influencing change.
While making no commitments, the Minister assured SLAJ that he would raise the proposal within government discussions and encouraged continued engagement, dialogue and advocacy.
SLAJ reaffirmed its role as a partner in national development and expressed confidence in the government’s commitment to upholding press freedom.
The association looks forward to further engagements to ensure a progressive legal framework for media freedom in Sierra Leone.
Credit: SLAJ Secretariat
