Investigations into attacks, threats, and the killing of journalists in Sierra Leone have made little progress, according to a monthly media freedom review, highlighting persistent delays in accountability.
The Media Reform Coordinating Group (MRCG), a coalition of the country’s leading press bodies, reported in its December review that cases involving intimidation, physical assault, and murder remain stalled due to inactive investigations, repeated court adjournments, and limited responses from authorities.
https://mrcgonline.org/media-freedom-review-december-2025/
Key Cases Remain Unresolved
The review noted that the alleged intimidation of Truth Radio presenter Amadu Lamrana Bah in October, after comments on the impact of the synthetic drug “Kush,” remains under investigation with no clear timeline for resolution.
Journalist Yusuff Moseray Suma, who received online threats during a political broadcast on Unity Broadcasting Online TV, has not filed a formal police report, citing unspecified concerns.
Meanwhile, the National Telecommunications Authority (NaTCA) has yet to restore broadcasting frequencies to the G8 Media Group, preventing the network from launching. Co-owner Thomas Dixon said the group has received “no positive response” after months of engagement with regulators and government officials.
Assault and Murder Cases Delayed
The assault case of Africa Young Voices (AYV) camera operator Foday Fofanah, allegedly attacked by police officers in May, remains unresolved. AYV management said authorities have not followed up, while police claim they are awaiting the journalist’s cooperation, leaving the case at an impasse.
The murder trial of journalist Samuel Brima Mattia, killed in January 2025, was adjourned until January 2026. During a December hearing, a police investigator testified that the main accused, Station Manager Joseph M Lamin, had confessed. The defense contested the confession’s validity, contributing to further delays.
Access and Legal Barriers
Journalist Melvin Tejan Mansaray, barred from Parliament since January 2025 over “malicious criticism,” reported that a parliamentary committee has completed a report but has not scheduled a debate. He is preparing an open letter to President Julius Maada Bio expressing frustration over the delay.
A cyberstalking case involving university lecturer Tejan Sheikh Rogers, committed to the High Court in July, has also not seen a hearing.
Call for Action
The MRCG, funded by the U.S.-based National Endowment for Democracy, includes the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists, the Guild of Editors, and other state regulatory bodies.
The organization said the ongoing delays underscore challenges to press freedom in Sierra Leone, urging law enforcement and the judiciary to take more timely action to protect journalists and uphold free expression.
