SLAJ Transitions Power Peacefully

By Sulaiman Jalloh

In a profound display of democracy and accountability, the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) held its 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 representatives from government all reinforcing the indispensable role of journalists in fostering and sustaining democracy.

Amid rising concerns over misinformation and disinformation, professional journalists continue to provide the public with accurate and timely information a vital service in democratic societies.

In a country often seen as politically polarized, SLAJ has stood out by conducting a peaceful and democratic leadership transition. This symbolic transfer of power not only exemplified unity and professionalism within the media fraternity but also offered a hopeful narrative for the broader national political landscape.

In his farewell address, outgoing President Ahmed Sahid Nasralla reflected on his journey, accomplishments, and the challenges he encountered during his tenure. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to SLAJ members for their trust and support, describing his leadership as humbling and fulfilling.

“Today is not the end, but a continuation of our collective vision to uphold press freedom, journalistic ethics, and professional growth,” Nasralla stated, urging journalists to stay united and focused.

He emphasized that his role was not isolated but part of a legacy built by predecessors committed to defending press freedom and journalistic integrity in Sierra Leone. Among his administration’s key achievements, he cited:

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, which further promoted press freedom, the launch of the SLAJ Eye Verify platform, aimed at combating misinformation by promoting access to credible information, the signing of a groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding with the security sector, under the auspices of the Office of National Security, to foster better media-police relations, the establishment of SLAJ Gender Equality programs, the construction of the first-ever SLAJ regional office building in the Eastern Region and the annual government subvention to SLAJ since 2019, which has seen consistent growth among others.

“These successes were only possible because of a united and dedicated executive,” he added, thanking all who supported the association’s progress during his leadership.

Incoming president Alhaji Manika Kamara praised Nasralla’s achievements, particularly his role in the repeal of repressive media laws. Kamara pledged to build on his predecessor’s legacy by further strengthening SLAJ and safeguarding the rights and responsibilities of journalists across the nation.

Speaking on behalf of the SLAJ Electoral Commission (SLAJEC), Commissioner Madam Zainab I. Joque commended Nasralla’s leadership and hailed the peaceful election as a demonstration of true democracy. She extended congratulations to the new executive.

Journalists from across Sierra Leone also reflected on Nasralla’s leadership style, widely known for its humility and inclusiveness. Many described him as a “consultative leader” who engaged stakeholders before making key decisions. “We will remember Nasralla for being down-to-earth and always ready to listen,” several journalists remarked.