On the occasion of World Press Freedom Day, the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), in collaboration with the Media Reform Coordinating Group (MRCG), has written to the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Hon. Alpha Sesay, requesting access to the final version of the Counter Terrorism Bill before it proceeds to the Government Printer and ultimately to the President for assent.
In a letter dated May 3, 2025, the organizations acknowledged the Attorney General’s openness to dialogue and commended the collaborative legislative engagements that have taken place. The appeal comes against the backdrop of this year’s World Press Freedom Day theme: “The Impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on Press Freedom and the Media.” SLAJ and MRCG used the occasion to highlight the ongoing need to protect press freedom, particularly in the context of national security laws.
The journalist associations expressed concerns raised in previous consultations regarding sections of the draft bill that could unintentionally infringe on press freedom and freedom of expression—particularly those containing vague definitions of terrorism-related offences, which they fear could be used to target journalists or suppress legitimate reporting.
“We were assured—by your office as well as by both the Leader of Government Business and the Leader of the Opposition in Parliament—that our concerns had been taken into account and that the African Union Model Law on Counter Terrorism was being adopted as a guide,” the letter stated.
However, citing past experiences—specifically the Cyber Security and Crime Act 2021, where some provisions were enacted without full consideration of earlier media stakeholder feedback—SLAJ and MRCG emphasized the importance of transparency and mutual trust.
“This request is made in good faith,” the letter continued, “to avoid a repeat of previous situations and to ensure that the final legislation reflects Sierra Leone’s commitment to balancing national security with democratic freedoms.”
The appeal also referenced President Julius Maada Bio’s role as a “Champion of Press Freedom”, urging the Government to uphold that standard through a collaborative and inclusive legislative process.
