World Press Freedom Day 2024: Stakeholders Commit to Ensuring a Free and Independent Press
By: Christian Conteh
On World Press Freedom Day 2024, stakeholders convened to address the critical intersection of press freedom and democracy in Sierra Leone. The panel discussion, held at the American Shelf, Fourah Bay College Library, Mount Aureol in Freetown, brought together prominent figures from the government, diplomatic corps and media fraternity.
Amadu Lamrana Bah, the moderator, set the tone by acknowledging the significant progress made in recent years, noting the transition from stifled journalism to open discussions—a testament to the evolving landscape of press freedom in Sierra Leone.
"Today, we can sit together to talk about the role of the media, something unthinkable in the past," Bah remarked, emphasizing the strides made in advancing freedom of expression.
Reflecting on the essence of press freedom in a healthy democracy, US Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Bryan David Hunt, emphasized the intrinsic link between a free press and informed decision-making.
"We are fortunate in Sierra Leone and the USA to live in countries committed to press freedom and democratic values," Ambassador Hunt affirmed, underlining the role of governments in ensuring journalists carry out their duties without harassment.
Highlighting the challenges posed by the proliferation of new media, Ambassador Hunt stressed the importance of responsible journalism in fostering civil discourse.
"We must stop those things that cross the line," he cautioned, urging for a concerted effort to promote ethical journalism practices.
Deputy Minister of Information and Civic Education, Bockarie Bawoh, extended a government apology for recent attacks on journalists, with particular reference to the incident involving Amadu Lamarana Bah, affirming the administration's commitment to press freedom. "No state can be called democratic without press freedom," Minister Bawoh emphasized, acknowledging the indispensable role journalists play in upholding democracy.
Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), echoed sentiments of progress while acknowledging persistent challenges. Nasralla highlighted the upward trajectory of Sierra Leone in the World Press Freedom Index but emphasized the need for continued advocacy to protect journalists' rights.
“The RSF’s World Press Freedom Index 2024 released shows Sierra Leone moved 10 places upwards from 74 in 2023 to 64 in 2024. However, despite these developments, we still have a long way to go in advocating for increased press freedom and protection of journalists’ rights,” Nasralla said.
Women in Media Sierra Leone (WIMSAL) President, Eastina Taylor, emphasized the importance of journalists' independence, urging for collaboration to combat the encroachment of social media on traditional media spaces.
She delved into the concepts of independence, interference, and censorship, dissecting their impact on democracy and press freedom. The consensus emerged that a vibrant democracy hinges on the freedom of expression, diverse opinions, and informed citizenry.
In conclusion, stakeholders affirmed their commitment to upholding press freedom and defending journalists' rights, underscoring the indispensable role of a free press in fostering a transparent and democratic society.
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