On 10 January 2025, during a parliamentary session convened to approve government nominees for various public service positions, Speaker Hon. Sengepoh Thomas made a pronouncement mid-proceedings. This pronouncement has subsequently been the subject of considerable debate and prompted a press statement from the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ).
The Speaker's pronouncement consisted of a decision to revoke the parliamentary access of Melvin Tejan Mansaray, a known journalist and parliamentary commentator. He further instructed the Sergeant-at-Arms to notify the Inspector General of Police of this decision, requesting Mr. Mansaray's arrest should he be found on parliamentary premises.
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These statements, broadcast live, were met with a press release from SLAJ, expressing concern regarding what they termed a "troubling development for press freedom and the principles of accountability in our democracy." SLAJ acknowledged the Speaker's concerns regarding journalistic standards but expressed apprehension that "such actions set a dangerous precedent and could erode public trust in the commitment of Parliament to transparency and accountability." They urged Parliament to reconsider its decision and involve the relevant regulatory bodies in such matters.
In an exclusive interview, Hon. Nyuma stated that SLAJ’s decision to issue a statement without prior consultation with Parliament was premature and ill-advised. He elaborated that the journalist in question had, on several occasions, made remarks concerning Parliament that could be interpreted as personal attacks on members, including the Speaker.
Hon. Nyuma noted the previously amicable relationship between Mr. Mansaray and some members, which had regrettably deteriorated into what he described as intolerable behaviour. He affirmed that their decision would not be rescinded without a thorough investigation into the journalist's conduct.
When contacted, the President of SLAJ, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, affirmed his commitment to dialogue following the weekend. He explained that SLAJ’s primary course of action is consistently to raise concerns regarding any action that poses a perceived threat to media freedom, followed by investigation and potential mediation. He concluded that certain actions should be avoided to protect Sierra Leone's international standing on media and press freedom, which are considered significant criteria in assessing a nation's democracy.
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