In a thought-provoking session held on Saturday, October 19, 2024, Hon. Chernor Bah, widely known as Chericoco, inspired members of the Eastern Based Journalists Association to prioritize the interests of Sierra Leone in their reporting.
The meeting, held at his office, saw Hon. Bah encouraging the journalists to remain committed to professionalism and contribute positively to the country’s progress.Addressing the executive members of the association, Chericoco emphasized the crucial role journalists play as gatekeepers of information and watchdogs of society.
He urged them to avoid sensationalism and focus on reporting stories that promote national development and human interest. “As journalists, your responsibility is to serve your conscience and the greater good of the nation.
If you stay committed to this, your efforts will be recognized,” he remarked.During the interactive session, Hon. Bah also called on the journalists to maintain neutrality within their association and avoid politicizing its operations.
He stressed the importance of inclusivity, stating, “Personal political affiliations should not hinder participation. This association must bring everyone on board for the betterment of journalism and Sierra Leone as a whole.”
The visit by the newly established Eastern Based Journalists Association was seen as an opportunity for the group to share its vision and challenges.
Hon. Bah commended the association’s efforts, acknowledging the difficulties journalists face, particularly those working in the eastern part of Freetown.
He reaffirmed his support for their cause, highlighting that journalists are vital in shaping the country’s image and fostering peace and unity.
The President of the Eastern Based Journalists Association, Alie Bai-Kamara, who also manages Citizens Radio, described the organization as a “newborn baby” dedicated to addressing the challenges faced by journalists in the region.
He noted that journalists in eastern Freetown have long endured humiliation, with media poverty contributing to a negative perception of their profession. Bai-Kamara expressed hope that the association would provide much-needed mentorship and collaboration to uplift its members.Bai-Kamara also praised Hon. Bah for his commitment to empowering Sierra Leone’s youth and his service as Deputy Speaker, Opposition Leader, and running mate in previous elections.
The association’s Vice President, Isaac Williams, echoed this sentiment, commending Chericoco’s dedication to youth and development initiatives in the country. Williams highlighted ongoing challenges such as poverty and intimidation faced by journalists in eastern Freetown and emphasized the need for stakeholder support to ensure the association’s sustainability.
The association’s Secretary General, Suajibu, shared his optimism about the positive impact the group could have on protecting journalists and improving their working conditions.
He stressed the importance of unity and collective action in addressing the issues faced by media practitioners in the region.As the session concluded, Financial Secretary Saddam outlined the association’s plans, which include registering with the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) and building stronger partnerships with key stakeholders.
The executive members expressed their gratitude to Hon. Bah for his support and pledged to work towards promoting journalism that contributes to Sierra Leone’s development.
Chericoco’s engagement with the Eastern Based Journalists Association underscored his belief in the power of media to drive positive change, encouraging journalists to rise above challenges and focus on the nation’s growth.
