By Joe Turay
Press freedom conditions in Sierra Leone faced renewed strain in April, with incidents ranging from the alleged assault of a journalist by police to ongoing criminal prosecutions, intimidation claims and a stalled murder trial, according to a monthly review by a civil society group.
The Media Reform Coordinating Group (MRCG), which monitors freedom of expression and the safety of journalists, said it documented multiple cases highlighting what it described as a challenging environment for media practitioners.
Among the incidents, journalist and legal practitioner Paul Kamara reported he was assaulted, restrained and pepper-sprayed by police officers while carrying out inquiries at a police station in Freetown in early April. The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists called for an investigation, while the Independent Police Complaint Board said it had opened a preliminary probe into the matter.
The report also tracked several high-profile legal cases involving public figures, including musician Alhaji Amadu Bah, widely known as LAJ, who was granted bail after facing charges under cybercrime and public order laws.
In a separate case, opposition All People’s Congress (APC) Secretary General Lansana Dumbuya continued to face trial on charges including incitement and insulting language, though proceedings were repeatedly adjourned during the month.
Celebrity Zainab Sheriff was sentenced to more than four years in prison on charges of incitement and threatening language linked to remarks allegedly made at a political gathering, underscoring the continued use of public order laws in prosecuting speech-related offences.
The review further highlighted unresolved cases affecting journalists, including the continued ban of parliamentary reporter Melvin Tejan Mansaray from accessing parliament over allegations of “malicious criticism,” and ongoing investigations into alleged intimidation of broadcaster Amadu Lamrana Bah.
Meanwhile, no progress was recorded in April in the murder trial of journalist Samuel Brima Mattia, who was killed in 2025, with proceedings adjourned until May.
Sierra Leone has made notable reforms to its media landscape in recent years, including the repeal of parts of the criminal libel law in 2020, a move widely welcomed by press freedom advocates. However, critics say other legislation — particularly provisions under the Cyber Security and Crime Act and the Public Order Act — continue to be used to regulate speech and prosecute journalists, activists and public figures.
The MRCG report reflects broader concerns raised by media watchdogs that legal pressures, combined with incidents of harassment, violence and administrative restrictions, may be undermining gains made in strengthening democratic governance and accountability.
The group said its monitoring aims to support “professional, independent and sustainable media” while promoting freedom of expression as a cornerstone of Sierra Leone’s democracy.
