IMC Fines Several Newspapers for Violating Media Ethics, Orders Retractions

The Independent Media Commission (IMC) has imposed fines and ordered retractions on several newspapers for violations of media ethics, reinforcing professional standards in Sierra Leone’s media sector.

At a meeting held on 25th February 2026, the IMC ratified the recommendations of its Complaints Committee on multiple complaints. The rulings reaffirm the Commission’s statutory mandate to promote accuracy, fairness, and accountability, in line with the IMC Act 2020 and the Print and Electronic Media Regulations 2022.

Among the newspapers sanctioned, Focus Independent Newspaper was fined Le 30,000 for operating without registration and failing to attend two scheduled hearings. Gleaner Newspaper was fined Le 5,000 after publishing an inaccurate story linking a business premises to alleged drug activity, with a retraction ordered to appear with equal prominence. Daybreak Newspaper faced fines totaling Le 10,000 for publishing misleading articles concerning a government minister. Salone Compass, New Age, and Standard Times were each fined Le 5,000 for publishing inaccurate stories and were required to issue corrections with equal prominence.

The IMC also ruled against the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC) following a complaint over an allegedly unlawful termination, ordering the broadcaster to compensate the former employee for failing to follow due process.

IMC Executive Secretary Khalil Kallon emphasized that while freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democracy, it must be exercised responsibly. He reminded media institutions of their obligation to ensure accuracy, fairness, and the right of reply in all publications.

The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a media environment that upholds integrity, accountability, and public trust.