By Sulaiman Jalloh
In a profound display of democracy, accountability, and professionalism, the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) held its official inaugural and handing-over ceremony on Friday, July 11, 2025, at the prestigious Bintumani Hotel in Freetown.
Held under the theme Celebrating Service, Honoring Partnership, ushering in a New Era, the event brought together media practitioners from across the country, development partners, the Mayor of Freetown, and government representatives all reaffirming the essential role journalists play in sustaining Sierra Leone’s democratic values.
At a time of rising concerns about misinformation and disinformation, professional journalists continue to serve as critical gatekeepers providing accurate, timely information and upholding the tenets of press freedom.
In a politically polarized country, SLAJ has stood tall as a beacon of hope, conducting a peaceful and democratic leadership transition that demonstrated not only unity and professionalism within the media fraternity but also offered a shining example for the national political climate.
In his heartfelt farewell address, outgoing SLAJ President Ahmed Sahid Nasralla reflected on his leadership journey the milestones achieved, the challenges faced, and the collective progress of the association under his stewardship.
Today is not the end, but a continuation of our collective vision to uphold press freedom, journalistic ethics, and professional growth, Nasralla remarked, calling on journalists to remain united and steadfast.
He emphasized that his role was part of a broader legacy built by those who came before him a tradition of defending press freedom and journalistic integrity. He highlighted several landmark achievements during his tenure, including:
The historic repeal of the criminal libel law under Part Five of the 1965 Public Order Act, the strengthening of the Independent Media Commission (IMC) Act to promote media independence and regulation;
The launch of SLAJ’s Eye Verify platform, designed to counter misinformation and provide verified news content;
The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the security sector, under the Office of National Security, to foster improved media-police relations;
The establishment of SLAJ’s Gender Equality Programs, The construction of SLAJ’s first-ever regional office in the Eastern Region, And the securing of annual government subvention to SLAJ since 2019, with consistent growth year-on-year.
These successes were only possible because of a united and dedicated executive, Nasralla noted, thanking all stakeholders and members for their trust and support throughout his leadership.
Incoming SLAJ President Alhaji Manika Kamara paid glowing tribute to Nasralla, commending his visionary leadership particularly his instrumental role in repealing repressive media laws.
Kamara pledged to build on his predecessor’s legacy, with a renewed focus on strengthening institutional structures and defending the rights and responsibilities of journalists throughout the country.
Speaking on behalf of the SLAJ Electoral Commission (SLAJEC), Commissioner Zainab I. Joque praised the outgoing executive and hailed the election process as a demonstration of true democracy in action, extending congratulations to the new leadership.
Journalists from across the country reflected on Nasralla’s widely admired consultative and inclusive leadership style. Many described him as approachable and deeply committed to consensus-building.
We will remember Nasralla for being down-to-earth, always ready to listen, and for putting the interests of the media first, several journalists remarked.
As SLAJ transitions into a new era under Kamara’s leadership, the association continues to serve as a pillar of press freedom and journalistic excellence in Sierra Leone inspiring confidence in democratic processes and professional integrity.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Monday,14th July, 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
