SLAJ Pushes for Constitutional Safeguards Amid Growing Concerns Over Gaps in Media Law

As Sierra Leone continues its constitutional review process, the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) is taking a decisive advocacy role, pushing for the inclusion of a standalone chapter on press freedom and freedom of expression a move many observers describe as long overdue and critical to the country’s democratic future.

The consultative meeting scheduled for Friday, 27 March 2026, comes amid persistent concerns that, despite reforms in recent years, the country’s legal framework still falls short of fully protecting journalists and guaranteeing press freedom in practice. While the repeal of criminal libel laws marked a significant milestone, media practitioners argue that the absence of explicit constitutional protection continues to expose journalists to intimidation, legal uncertainty, and arbitrary restrictions.

Without a clearly defined constitutional provision, press freedom remains vulnerable to interpretation, political pressure, and institutional weaknesses. SLAJ’s call for a dedicated chapter is therefore rooted in both experience and urgency. Existing constitutional provisions on freedom of expression, observers note, are broad and lack the specificity needed to address the realities of modern journalism, leaving legal protections insufficient to defend journalists against harassment, censorship, or undue interference.

Critically, the push also reflects broader concerns about the role of the media in Sierra Leone’s democracy. A free and independent press is widely regarded as a cornerstone of accountability, transparency, and good governance. Yet, without firm constitutional backing, that role can be undermined, weakening journalists’ ability to investigate, report, and hold power to account without fear.

Legal experts and media advocates argue that a standalone chapter would go beyond symbolic recognition. It would establish clear standards, define the rights and responsibilities of both the media and the state, and provide a stronger legal basis for challenging violations in court. More importantly, it would align Sierra Leone with international best practices on media freedom and democratic governance.

Leading the renewed push is SLAJ President Ahmed Alhaji Manika Kamara, whose leadership has focused on repositioning the media as a strong pillar of democracy. Under his stewardship, SLAJ has intensified engagement with its executive, membership, and wider media institutions to ensure a unified and strategic approach to constitutional advocacy.

Speaking ahead of the consultation, Manika emphasized the urgency of the moment:

“This is not just about journalists; it is about the future of democracy in Sierra Leone. Without strong constitutional guarantees, press freedom remains exposed. We must ensure that the Constitution speaks clearly and boldly in protecting the rights of journalists and the public’s right to know.”

He added that the current review process presents a rare opportunity to correct longstanding gaps in media law:

“We cannot afford to miss this moment. A standalone chapter on press freedom will not only protect journalists but will strengthen accountability, promote transparency, and deepen democratic governance in our country.”

As SLAJ leads the conversation ahead of tomorrow’s consultation, the message is clear: without deliberate constitutional safeguards, gains made in media reform risk being fragile. For journalists across the country, this is a defining moment that could either cement the foundation of press freedom in Sierra Leone or leave it exposed to vulnerabilities that have long hindered its growth.