Twelve days after Parliament declared the Constitution of Sierra Leone (Amendment) Bill 2025 passed, the country remains divided between support for its proposed reforms and concern over the parliamentary process used to approve it.

The Bill contains several widely welcomed provisions, including measures to strengthen the electoral commission, introduce a constitutional quota for women’s political nomination and broaden the political participation of dual citizens. Those reforms represent the outcome of a constitutional review process spanning more than two decades.

However, the manner in which Parliament declared the Bill passed on 10 August 2026 has generated serious legal and political controversy. Lawyers, Civil Society Organisations, religious leaders, trade unionists and opposition politicians are now urging President Julius Maada Bio to withhold his assent until the Supreme Court determines whether Parliament followed the constitutional voting requirement.

The dispute centres on Section 108(2)(b) of the 1991 Constitution, which requires any Bill seeking to amend the Constitution to receive the support of not less than two-thirds of Members of Parliament at its second and third readings.

With 149 seats in Parliament, critics maintain that the Bill required at least 100 votes to pass. The controversy arose after members of the main opposition All People’s Congress walked out of the chamber over disagreement about whether the required two-thirds majority should be calculated using the full membership of Parliament or only those present and voting.

Following the walkout, the Speaker declared the Bill passed based on the votes of the remaining members. He subsequently referred the question of the appropriate voting threshold to the Supreme Court for interpretation.

Critics have questioned the decision to declare the Bill passed before seeking the Supreme Court’s opinion. They argue that the sequence created uncertainty over whether one of the most significant pieces of legislation considered by Parliament in recent years was constitutionally enacted.

Nicol-Wilson and Law Firm has formally petitioned the Speaker, describing the decision as an unconstitutional exercise of Parliament’s amendment powers. The law firm argues that Parliament relied on the ordinary voting provision under Section 91(1), instead of the higher threshold required under Section 108(2)(b).

The firm also rejected suggestions that Section 94(2), which protects parliamentary proceedings from certain legal challenges, could prevent the courts from examining an alleged constitutional violation.

It cited the Court of Appeal decision in APC and Others v Speaker and Others (2000), which held that parliamentary procedural protection does not extend to actions that violate the Constitution.

The firm’s position is that the required majority must be secured at the time of voting and that a subsequent court interpretation cannot correct a vote that failed to meet the constitutional threshold.

Other legal commentators have made a similar distinction between Parliament’s internal procedures and its constitutional authority. They argue that Standing Order 42 and Section 94(2) protect Parliament’s management of its proceedings but do not place alleged constitutional breaches beyond judicial review.

The Institute for Legal Research and Advocacy for Justice has also criticized the process, warning that referring the threshold question to the Supreme Court after declaring the Bill passed created a constitutional outcome before the legality of the vote had been determined.

The organisation has additionally expressed concern over reports that civil society observers were removed from the parliamentary chamber during the sitting. It urged all parties to avoid irreversible action until the Supreme Court resolves the dispute.

The Sierra Leone Labour Congress has appealed directly to President Bio not to sign the Bill, citing the controversy surrounding the voting threshold and its objection to a separate provision concerning the system through which Members of Parliament are elected.

The Labour Congress wants the Bill returned to Parliament for further consideration and broader consultation.

The Inter-Religious Council of Sierra Leone has adopted a more conciliatory position, calling on Parliament, the judiciary and the President to exercise patience and act in the national interest. It urged lawmakers to pursue greater consensus and avoid treating the Constitution as the property of any political party.

The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists welcomed the referral to the Supreme Court and called on all sides to respect the Court’s eventual decision.

The All People’s Congress has also said it will not recognize the amendment as valid until the Supreme Court rules on the legality of the parliamentary process.

Concern has not been limited to opposition and civil society voices. Former Secretary-General of the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party, Sulaiman Banja Tejan-Sie, publicly described the episode as a “comedy of errors,” reflecting unease from within the governing party’s wider political circle.

Despite the controversy, most critics have not rejected the Bill’s major reforms. The proposed strengthening and renaming of the electoral commission, increased political representation for women and broader inclusion of dual citizens are generally regarded as important developments.

The central objection is that constitutional reform must be conducted strictly according to the procedures established by the Constitution. Critics maintain that worthwhile reforms could still lose public confidence if enacted through a process affected by unresolved legal questions.

President Bio has repeatedly presented constitutional reform as the culmination of a national process extending across several administrations. Those calling for him to withhold assent argue that the same patience should be exercised at the final stage.

They warn that signing the Bill before the Supreme Court delivers its interpretation would not resolve the controversy but transfer it from Parliament to the judiciary after the President’s signature had already been attached.

Waiting for the Court’s decision, they argue, would cause only a temporary delay while allowing the proposed reforms to proceed on firmer constitutional foundations.

The dispute is therefore not simply between supporters and opponents of reform. It is about whether constitutional change should proceed only after full compliance with the law has been established.

For a country still affected by disagreements arising from the 2023 elections, the method used to change its supreme law is not a minor procedural matter. It is central to public confidence in the reforms and the democratic institutions responsible for delivering them. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/63777

 

Sierra Leone’s expanding construction industry is creating greater demand for cement products capable of supporting safe, durable and professionally executed projects across the country.

FAWAZ Building Materials is positioning RANDCEM 42.5R Cement within the growing market as an option for contractors, engineers, property developers, masons and homeowners undertaking residential, commercial and public infrastructure developments.

The increase in housing construction, business facilities, schools, hospitals, offices and other structures has placed renewed attention on the quality of materials used within the building industry. Customers are increasingly assessing cement based on consistency, strength, durability and long-term value instead of concentrating solely on price.

Manufactured in Vietnam, RANDCEM Cement is imported in 50-kilogram bags and carries a 42.5R strength classification. The product is intended for various concrete and masonry applications, including foundations, columns, beams, floors and concrete blocks.

FAWAZ Building Materials said the cement’s characteristics make it suitable for different categories of construction work, particularly projects requiring dependable early strength and consistent performance.

RANDCEM Cement reportedly begins setting within approximately 30 minutes under appropriate working conditions. The early-setting quality may assist builders in managing construction schedules and improving productivity at project sites.

Construction professionals, however, have cautioned that early-setting cement must be handled with adequate preparation. Sand, stone, water and other necessary materials should be made available before mixing begins. Concrete must also be placed and compacted promptly to achieve the expected results.

Builders have further been reminded that the quality of cement alone cannot guarantee the safety of a structure. Strong and durable construction also depends on approved designs, stable foundations, suitable reinforcement, clean sand, appropriate aggregates and proper professional supervision.

The amount of water used during mixing is another important factor affecting concrete quality. Excessive water can weaken concrete, increase shrinkage and contribute to cracking, while incorrect measurements of cement, sand and aggregate may reduce the overall durability of a structure.

A commonly used proportion for ordinary concrete work is one part cement, two parts sand and four parts aggregate. Lean concrete may use one part cement, three parts sand and six parts aggregate. These general mixtures should not replace technical specifications prepared for individual projects by qualified engineers.

Curing must also receive proper attention after concrete has been placed. Newly cast concrete should be kept sufficiently moist during the early stages of development to help it achieve the required strength and prevent premature damage.

Poor curing practices can undermine the performance of concrete, regardless of the original quality of the cement. Builders are therefore encouraged to treat curing as a critical stage of construction rather than an optional finishing process.

Cement storage is equally important in preserving its quality before use. RANDCEM bags should be kept in a dry, covered and properly ventilated environment. They should be raised above the floor and protected from rainfall, groundwater, damp walls and leaking roofs.

Once a bag has been opened, the remaining cement should preferably be used within seven days. If immediate use is not possible, the bag should be tightly sealed and kept away from moisture and air, which may cause the cement to harden or lose some of its effectiveness.

Workers handling cement have also been advised to observe basic health and safety precautions. Gloves and face masks can help reduce direct contact with cement and exposure to dust, while safe lifting techniques are necessary when moving 50-kilogram bags. Cement should also be stored away from children.

The increasing concern over building collapses in Sierra Leone has intensified public discussion about standards and accountability within the construction sector. Structural failures may result from defective designs, weak foundations, poor workmanship, inferior materials or inadequate professional supervision.

Industry stakeholders have consequently called for stronger market inspections and regular laboratory testing by the Sierra Leone Standards Bureau and other responsible institutions. Such interventions would help determine whether imported and locally distributed cement products meet the required standards before reaching consumers.

Effective monitoring of importers, distributors and retailers could also protect customers from substandard building materials, promote fair competition and strengthen confidence in Sierra Leone’s construction market.

FAWAZ Building Materials said the distribution of RANDCEM 42.5R Cement forms part of its contribution to the country’s development by making dependable construction materials available to customers.

As Sierra Leone continues investing in housing and infrastructure, the strength and safety of new structures will depend on the combined use of tested materials, responsible workmanship, sound engineering and effective regulatory oversight. RANDCEM’s growing market presence reflects the wider demand for cement products capable of supporting those priorities. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/63778

 

Mercury International customer Ibrahim Massaquoi has won NLe82,800 after staking only NLe20 in the company’s latest Dove Court Special Lotto Draw.

The Kenema-based businessman received the prize following Sunday’s draw, in which he played the popular Balls 12-21 game. Ibrahim Massaquoi was among 3,904 successful customers who secured winnings from the draw.

The winning numbers were 12-51-75-20-21, while the Extra 6 and 7 numbers were 79 and 35, respectively.

Speaking after receiving his prize, Ibrahim Massaquoi expressed excitement over the win and thanked the Management and Staff of Mercury International for ensuring that successful customers receive their winnings.

He disclosed that he has participated in Mercury International’s betting games for more than six years and described the latest payout as another rewarding moment in his experience with the company.

Ibrahim Massaquoi said the prize would strengthen his financial position and support his business and household responsibilities. He maintained that Mercury International’s games have provided financial opportunities for several Sierra Leoneans, particularly during a period of economic hardship.

“Indeed, Mercury International is a company that helps to reduce the poverty rate in many homes in Sierra Leone,” Ibrahim Massaquoi said.

He acknowledged that betting has attracted criticism from some sections of society, including religious leaders. However, he argued that the company’s payouts have helped many winners address pressing financial needs and improve their livelihoods.

“Mercury International helps to reduce the poverty rate in many homes, even though others are against it, especially our religious leaders,” he stated.

Ibrahim Massaquoi encouraged adult customers to participate responsibly in the company’s various draws while recognizing that winning is based on chance and is never guaranteed.

“I want to encourage everyone, especially the youth, to take part and have a chance of winning,” he added.

The Kenema businessman concluded by thanking Mercury International for creating different betting opportunities and fulfilling its payment obligations to winners.

His NLe82,800 prize, equivalent to Le82.8 million in the former currency,was secured from a stake of NLe20, making him one of the prominent winners in Sunday’s Dove Court Special Draw. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/63772

 

The Government of Sierra Leone has assured citizens that they are not prohibited from travelling to or passing through neighbouring Guinea, provided they possess valid travel documents and meet the country’s immigration and security requirements.

The clarification was contained in a public notice issued by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education on Thursday, August 20, 2026, following concerns and uncertainty surrounding the movement of Sierra Leoneans through Guinea.

According to the notice, citizens travelling for legitimate purposes may continue to enter or transit through Guinea once they comply with the relevant laws and procedures.

The Government, however, disclosed that restrictions apply to Sierra Leoneans attempting to use Guinea as a transit point for irregular migration or overseas employment outside established recruitment, labour and immigration procedures.

Guinean authorities have reportedly expressed concern over cases involving suspected human trafficking, irregular migration and overseas employment arrangements that could not be properly verified.

The Ministry warned that Sierra Leoneans planning to travel abroad for employment must complete all lawful recruitment, labour and immigration requirements before leaving the country.

It advised prospective migrant workers to verify overseas job offers and recruitment arrangements through the Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security. The verification process is intended to establish the legitimacy of employers, recruitment agencies and proposed employment conditions.

Citizens are further cautioned against travelling through Guinea or using other transit routes to avoid official procedures. The Government noted that failure to follow the established process could expose travellers to trafficking, exploitation, fraudulent job offers and avoidable difficulties during their journeys.

The warning comes amid growing concern over individuals being persuaded to leave Sierra Leone based on unverified promises of employment abroad. In some cases, travellers may become stranded or vulnerable to criminal networks after entering unfamiliar countries without the necessary documentation or official protection.

The Government therefore encourages citizens to confirm the authenticity of overseas employment opportunities before committing money, surrendering their travel documents or beginning their journeys.

Sierra Leoneans experiencing difficulties while travelling through Guinea have been advised to contact the Embassy of Sierra Leone in Conakry for consular assistance. The Embassy can be reached by telephone on +224 621 048 214.

The Government reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with Guinean authorities and international partners to facilitate legitimate travel while protecting Sierra Leonean citizens from human trafficking, exploitation and other dangers associated with irregular migration.

The notice makes clear that the measures do not constitute a general travel ban against Sierra Leoneans. Instead, they are directed at preventing the misuse of Guinea as a transit route for irregular migration and unauthorized overseas employment. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/63769

 

The newly appointed Commissioner General of the National Revenue Authority (NRA), Abu Martin Kanneh, has officially assumed office with a commitment to strengthen domestic revenue mobilization, improve taxpayer engagement and build public confidence in the institution.

Abu Martin Kanneh took over from outgoing Commissioner General Jeneba J. Bangura during a formal handing-over ceremony held on Friday, August 21, 2026. The event marked a significant leadership transition and the beginning of a new administrative chapter for the Authority.

Members of the NRA Board, the Senior Management Team, directors and staff attended the ceremony, which provided an opportunity to review the progress recorded under the outgoing administration and outline expectations for the incoming leadership.

Delivering her farewell address, Jeneba J. Bangura expressed appreciation to the NRA workforce for the commitment, cooperation and support demonstrated throughout her tenure.

She acknowledged the collective contribution of employees towards advancing the mandate of the Authority and strengthening domestic revenue collection.

Jeneba J. Bangura formally presented a comprehensive handing-over report covering her period in office from December 4, 2023 to August 2026. The document highlighted major programmes, institutional reforms, activities, achievements and milestones recorded by the NRA during the period.

Chairman of the NRA Board, Kabineh Kallon, commended Jeneba J. Bangura for her leadership, service and contribution to the development of the Authority.

Speaking on behalf of the Board, Kabineh Kallon expressed appreciation for her work and wished her success in her new appointment.

Commissioner General, Abu Martin Kanneh, thanked President Dr. Julius Maada Bio for appointing him to lead the NRA and for the confidence placed in his ability to manage the country’s principal revenue collection institution.

Kabineh Kanneh said his previous service as Commissioner of the Customs Service Department had provided him with considerable knowledge and experience of the Authority’s operations, responsibilities and institutional challenges.

He praised Jeneba J. Bangura for the achievements recorded during her tenure and called on staff to unite behind the new administration.

The Commissioner General emphasized that effective domestic revenue mobilization remains critical to financing Government programmes, improving public services and advancing Sierra Leone’s socio-economic development.

He pledged to improve the public image of the NRA, strengthen relations with taxpayers and maximize the benefits of ongoing reforms, technological innovations and modern revenue collection systems.

Abu Martin Kanneh encouraged Management and Staff to demonstrate professionalism, integrity and teamwork in the execution of their responsibilities. He maintained that the Authority could achieve its targets only through the collective commitment of its workforce.

Newly appointed Deputy Commissioner General 2, Ing. Edmond Benjamin Nonie also thanked President Bio for giving him the opportunity to serve at the NRA.

Ing. Edmond Benjamin Nonie expressed readiness to work with the Commissioner General, Management and Staff to advance the mandate of the institution. He pledged to listen, learn and contribute meaningfully to the attainment of the NRA’s strategic objectives.

Deputy Commissioner General 1, Ann-Marie Baby Harding, commended the outgoing administration for its service and welcomed the new leadership.

Ann-Marie Baby Harding pledged her support to the Commissioner General and his deputy while urging staff to embrace teamwork, cooperation and professionalism. She stressed that the success of the Authority would depend on the combined efforts of Management and employees.

Speaking on behalf of the Senior Management Team, Senior Director Dr. Philip M. Kargbo expressed appreciation to the outgoing leadership and reaffirmed Management’s commitment to working with the new administration.

Dr. Philip M. Kargbo assured the Commissioner General that the Senior Management Team would support initiatives aimed at improving the Authority’s performance and strengthening domestic revenue mobilization.

Director of Human Resources, Dora N. Tucker, similarly pledged her support to the incoming leadership. She encouraged staff to remain committed, cooperative and focused on achieving the Authority’s strategic priorities.

The handing-over ceremony represented more than a change of leadership. It reaffirmed the NRA’s commitment to institutional continuity, teamwork, reforms, improved taxpayer services and effective revenue collection.

With Abu Martin Kanneh now at the helm, the Authority is expected to intensify efforts to expand the domestic revenue base, improve service delivery and strengthen its contribution to Sierra Leone’s national development. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/63765

 

Deputy Inspector General of Police, Andrew Mustapha Kamara, has urged personnel serving in the Freetown West Region to demonstrate greater professionalism, accountability, integrity and discipline in carrying out their duties.

DIG Andrew Mustapha Kamara made the call during a lecture delivered to senior commanders and other police personnel on Friday, 21 August 2026. The engagement formed part of efforts by the leadership of the Sierra Leone Police to improve service delivery and promote responsible conduct across the institution.

The meeting brought together the Deputy Regional Commander, Local Unit Commanders, support officers and other strategic commanders representing the six police divisions within the Freetown West Region.

DIG Andrew Mustapha Kamara explained that the engagement was organized to communicate the vision and priorities of the Inspector General of Police William Fayia Sellu and the Executive Management Board. He said the leadership remains committed to advancing the institution’s transition from a traditional police “Force” to a people-centred “Service.”

He reminded officers that professionalism should be reflected in their appearance, behaviour and interaction with members of the public. According to him, maintaining discipline and treating citizens with respect are essential to building confidence in the police.

The Deputy Inspector General raised concerns about several practices capable of damaging the reputation of the institution, including improper dressing, unlawful arrests, bribery, corruption and other forms of misconduct.

He warned personnel that actions bringing the Sierra Leone Police into disrepute would undermine public trust and weaken the institution’s ability to carry out its constitutional responsibilities effectively.

DIG Andrew Mustapha Kamara also underscored the importance of proper mentorship for recruits and junior officers. He urged senior personnel and frontline managers to provide the necessary guidance to help younger officers understand and comply with professional standards.

Special attention was drawn to the use of social media platforms, particularly TikTok. DIG Andrew Mustapha Kamara cautioned officers against publishing inappropriate content or engaging in online activities that could compromise the credibility of the police.

He stressed that police personnel remain representatives of the institution even when using personal social media accounts and should, therefore, exercise judgement and responsibility in their online conduct.

DIG Andrew Mustapha Kamara called on Local Unit Commanders, support officers, the Complaints, Discipline and Internal Investigations Department and other frontline managers to ensure strict compliance with the institution’s rules and professional standards.

He encouraged personnel to embrace the reforms taking place within the Sierra Leone Police, noting that the Inspector General of Police and the Executive Management Board are determined to achieve the institution’s objectives and improve public service delivery.

The Deputy Inspector General further highlighted the need for effective checkpoint management. He urged commanders to ensure that checkpoints are operated lawfully, professionally and in a manner that do not inconvenience or intimidate members of the public.

He also called for stronger inter-agency collaboration and closer cooperation between the Sierra Leone Police and the Freetown City Council in addressing lawlessness, public disorder and indiscipline across the capital.

Responding on behalf of Freetown West Regional Commander, Assistant Inspector General of Police, Sylvester M. N. Koroma, Deputy Regional Commander Assistant Commissioner of Police Mohamed Kamara thanked DIG Kamara for the engagement.

ACP Mohamed Kamara described the lecture as timely and important, saying the messages delivered would help strengthen discipline and improve the performance of personnel throughout the region.

He also referred to the ongoing review of the Sierra Leone Police Rules and Regulations, expressing hope that the process would further enhance the institution’s ability to address misconduct and uphold professional standards.

Chief Superintendent of Police, Mbalu Gbla, Local Unit Commander of the Aberdeen Police Division, delivered the vote of thanks. She congratulated DIG Andrew Mustapha Kamara on his appointment and expressed appreciation for the guidance provided during the engagement.

The Local Unit Commanders of the six divisions and other commanders attending the meeting welcomed the initiative and pledged to implement the directives communicated by the Deputy Inspector General.

They reaffirmed their commitment to promoting discipline, accountability and professional policing while contributing to the Sierra Leone Police’s continuing transformation into a responsive and trusted public service. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/63761

 

Women in the Media Sierra Leone (WIMSAL) and its partners have secured the adoption of a new gender-responsive safeguarding policy designed to prevent sexual exploitation, abuse, harassment and discrimination across Sierra Leone’s media industry.

The WIMSAL Gender-Responsive Safeguarding Policy for Media Institutions, 2026, was adopted and endorsed during a one-day Policy Dialogue Forum held at the Civil Service Training College, Tower Hill, Freetown, on Friday, 21 August 2026.

WIMSAL organized the engagement with support from Comic Relief and in partnership with BBC Media Action. The forum was held under the theme, “Advancing Gender-Responsive Safeguarding Policies in Media Houses.”

Media executives, journalists, professional associations, Civil Society Organisations and development partners attended the dialogue to examine the challenges affecting women and other vulnerable professionals in media workplaces.

The forum focused particularly on sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment, weak reporting structures, fear of retaliation and the limited representation of women in leadership and decision-making positions.

President of WIMSAL, Eastina Taylor-Tucker, said no media professional should be required to sacrifice personal dignity or safety in exchange for employment or career advancement.

“No woman or man should have to surrender their dignity, safety or body to work in Sierra Leone’s media sector,” Eastina Taylor-Tucker stated.

BBC Media Action Country Director, Musa Sangarie, said the safety and equal participation of women must be treated as essential elements of media freedom.

“There can be no truly free media if women are not free to participate in it fully, safely and equally,” Musa Sangarie maintained.

The forum built on previous interventions undertaken by WIMSAL and BBC Media Action to address sexual harassment, exploitation and gender inequality in Sierra Leone’s media sector.

Those interventions included support for the establishment of a secretariat through which cases of sexual exploitation, harassment and abuse could be reported. They also included BBC Media Action’s 2025 report on sexual harassment in the media and a 2026 study examining women’s representation and leadership.

President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Alhaji Manika Kamara, described the findings of the 2025 BBC Media Action report as deeply concerning.

He said the reported level of harassment experienced by women media professionals, together with widespread under-reporting and weak accountability mechanisms, required urgent and decisive action from all stakeholders.

According to Alhaji Manika Kamara, safeguarding should no longer be regarded as an optional or secondary concern within media institutions.

He said SLAJ’s commitment to press freedom, professionalism, ethics and the welfare of journalists also required the association to support measures that would guarantee safe and dignified working conditions.

The SLAJ President maintained that Sierra Leone could not claim to have a genuinely free and credible media environment when journalists, particularly women, feel unsafe, intimidated or unable to report abuse without fear of retaliation.

He called on media institutions to establish clear safeguarding policies, confidential complaint procedures, accessible reporting channels and transparent mechanisms for handling allegations of sexual harassment and other forms of abuse.

Alhaji Manika Kamara stressed that adopting policies would not be enough unless media owners, editors and managers ensured their effective implementation.

He welcomed the proposed Safeguarding Charter and encouraged media houses and other stakeholders to endorse and uphold it.

The SLAJ President further explained that sexual harassment is not solely a women’s concern but a professional, institutional and human rights issue requiring collective action.

He said media owners, editors, managers, journalists, journalism training institutions, professional associations, regulators, Civil Society Organisations and development partners must all contribute to building a safer industry.

“SLAJ urges all media institutions to move from commitment to concrete action,” Alhaji Manika Kamara stated.

He called for stronger safeguarding systems, greater accountability, increased reporting, adequate protection for survivors and the full integration of gender justice into Sierra Leone’s media development.

The newly adopted WIMSAL Gender-Responsive Safeguarding Policy provides minimum standards that media institutions are expected to implement in their workplaces.

It establishes measures for preventing sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment and eliminating gender-based discrimination and violence.

The policy also seeks to increase women’s meaningful participation in leadership and decision-making positions within media institutions.

Other provisions include the establishment of safe and accessible reporting mechanisms, fair and impartial investigations and protection for complainants, survivors and witnesses against retaliation.

The document further addresses online gender-based abuse and the specific dangers faced by women journalists in the course of their work.

It also requires media institutions to strengthen safeguarding through regular training, monitoring and clearly defined responsibilities.

Participants emphasized that safeguarding policies must not exist only on paper. Their effectiveness, they said, should be demonstrated through the daily decisions, conduct and practices of media institutions.

The stakeholders agreed that gender should never become an obstacle to professional advancement and that no position of authority should be used as a licence for exploitation.

They also stressed that no person who files a complaint in good faith should face retaliation, while survivors must be treated with dignity and accused persons must receive due process.

The forum further affirmed that nobody should be placed beyond accountability because of status, public office, wealth or influence.

WIMSAL pledged to continue working with media institutions, regulators, professional associations, Civil Society Organisations and development partners to ensure that the commitments contained in the policy are translated into action.

The organisation said the initiative is intended to transform Sierra Leone’s media culture from silence to accountability, vulnerability to protection and written promises to meaningful institutional reform.

The forum concluded with a call for media houses to create workplaces where journalists can perform their professional duties, pursue leadership opportunities and contribute to national development without harassment, discrimination or fear. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/archives/63755