SLAJ Worried About Sustained Attacks Against Journalists

By Christian Conteh

In recent years, the increasing cases of online attacks against journalists, particularly those critical of government actions, have become a deeply troubling trend. This disturbing pattern threatens the very foundations of democracy and good governance.

One notable victim of such attacks is Lamrana Bah, the most recent recipient of the Journalist of the Year Award. Bah’s “crime” was merely questioning the excesses of the executive, specifically the presidency, and calling for improved transparency. His advocacy aimed at fostering good governance and strengthening democracy.

More recently, Thomas Dixon, another critical journalist, faced scathing online attacks allegedly from individuals associated with the First Lady’s office. Dixon has consistently held public officials accountable, commending those who act rightly and criticizing those who err. His latest “offense” was condemning a statement made by the First Lady, which implied that the first family no longer needed public support since they were not seeking re-election. Dixon labeled this statement as arrogant—a mild description for what many perceive as a display of disdain for public accountability.

These incidents are not isolated. There is a clear, sustained campaign against critical journalists across the country, which must cease immediately.

In response, the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) issued a statement expressing deep concern about these online attacks, particularly those targeting Thomas Josephus Dixon and other journalists. SLAJ President Ahmed Sahid Nasralla stated,

“These continuous online attacks on journalists for merely expressing their views and opinions on public officials and national issues are unwarranted. Democracy and good governance thrive on the right of citizens, including journalists, to freely express themselves. We are seeing a consistent pattern of fanatic and overzealous political supporters attacking journalists and political commentators whose publications they disagree with. We urge politicians and public officials to admonish their supporters to refrain from such undemocratic and ill-motivated endeavors.”

SLAJ also recently raised alarms over an alleged physical assault on Munya Bunya, a journalist with All Out Radio 90.1FM, by police officers in Kenema on June 7, 2024. Eyewitnesses report that Bunya was severely beaten by specific police officers, including the Kenema divisional crime officer. SLAJ has called on the leadership of the Sierra Leone Police to swiftly investigate and bring the perpetrators to justice.

These assaults both online and physical against journalists are attacks on democracy itself. It is imperative that political leaders, public officials, and the broader community stand against such actions and uphold the principles of free expression and accountability that are vital to Sierra Leone’s democratic future.