Recent insults, intimidation, attacks, and threats against journalist Amadu Lamrana Bah have alarmed the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), primarily from people who are thought to be government employees and supporters of the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP).
The press release from the Journalists umbrella body said, “Bah, recognised in March 2024 as ‘Journalist of the Year 2023’ by SLAJ, has consistently spoken truth to power and held public officials to account for years, regardless of the government in power.”
Following his repeated questions about the opportunity costs of His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio’s international lectures and frequent travels, as well as the President’s recent purchase of a Maybach Benz Jeep “amidst growing hardship for ordinary Sierra Leoneans,” he began to receive threats and online attacks. “He now fears for his safety and security after reporting to us and providing fragments of evidence of the threats against his person.”
“Freedom of the press is an essential feature of democracy. Any attempt to suppress journalists by verbal abuse, physical threats, or other forms of harassment violates this fundamental human right and undermines the role that journalists play in our evolving democracy. Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, President of SLAJ, stated, “It is essential that we stand in solidarity with journalists like Lamrana and unequivocally denounce these reprehensible actions.”
“SLAJ thinks protecting journalists’ health and safety online and offline is important. Nobody should be intimidated or afraid for their life because they are journalists. The statement continued, “We implore the authorities to act quickly and decisively to look into these threats and hold those accountable.”
SLAJ makes it plain that it is in solidarity with Amadu Lamarana Bah and all other journalists in Sierra Leone who are subjected to attacks, threats, and intimidation because of their dedication to the truth, openness, and commitment to safeguarding press freedom and ensuring journalists can carry out their vital work without fear of reprisal.
