The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has strongly condemned the recent decision by the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas, to bar journalist Melvin Tejan Mansaray from accessing parliamentary premises.
This move, reportedly due to allegations of “malicious criticism” of parliamentary decisions, has raised serious concerns about press freedom and democratic accountability in Sierra Leone.
In a press release issued by SLAJ, the association expressed deep concern over the implications of such a ban, emphasizing that it threatens the constitutional rights to freedom of expression and press freedom. SLAJ warned that this action sets a dangerous precedent, potentially undermining public trust in Parliament’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
SLAJ President, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, stated, “While we acknowledge the Speaker’s concerns regarding journalistic standards, barring a journalist from covering parliamentary proceedings is not the solution. This act compromises the principles of accountability that are essential in a democratic society.
The association has called on Parliament to reconsider the ban and urged that the matter be referred to SLAJ and the Independent Media Commission (IMC) for appropriate handling. SLAJ reiterated its role as the professional body responsible for addressing concerns about journalists’ conduct, while the IMC serves as the statutory regulator for media operations in the country.
In response to the ban, SLAJ has initiated discussions with parliamentary leadership to gain a clearer understanding of the decision’s circumstances. Simultaneously, an internal investigation is being launched to evaluate the allegations against Mansaray.
SLAJ also used this opportunity to remind all journalists of the importance of maintaining high ethical and professional standards in their reporting. “Public institutions have a duty to protect the rights of journalists to report without fear of intimidation,” the release noted.
SLAJ reaffirmed its commitment to upholding press freedom and supporting responsible journalism in Sierra Leone, vowing to continue advocating for the rights of media professionals in the face of such challenges.
