By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Media Reform Coordinating Group (MRCG) has released its 15th Press Freedom Report, providing a detailed assessment of the state of freedom of expression, press freedom, access to information, internet freedom and digital rights in Sierra Leone between June and November 2025.

The report, which forms part of MRCG’s long-running monitoring and advocacy work, documents eight key cases and issues affecting media practitioners, citizens and institutions during the review period. It also follows up on unresolved matters highlighted in the first to the fourteenth editions of the Press Freedom Report, offering continuity, context and accountability within the country’s democratic and governance framework.

According to MRCG, the publication aims to serve as both a record and an early warning system, highlighting emerging threats to fundamental freedoms while recognizing areas of progress and reform. The organisation notes that press freedom and digital rights remain central to democratic consolidation, particularly in a society increasingly shaped by digital communication and online civic engagement.

One of the core pillars of the report is freedom of expression and the press, with MRCG documenting incidents involving journalists, media houses and content creators. These include cases of alleged intimidation, restrictions on reporting and disputes between journalists and public authorities.

The report underscores that while Sierra Leone has made notable strides in improving its media landscape, especially since the repeal of criminal libel laws, practical challenges persist. Journalists continue to face pressure when covering sensitive topics such as governance, corruption, elections and public accountability. MRCG stresses that those challenges, if left unaddressed, could undermine public confidence in the media and restrict citizens’ access to balanced and independent information.

Another major focus of the 15th edition is the Right to Access Information, a constitutional and statutory guarantee that enables citizens and journalists to obtain information from public institutions.

MRCG’s findings indicate that although the legal framework for access to information exists, implementation remains inconsistent. Some public bodies reportedly continue to delay or deny information requests, often citing bureaucratic hurdles or confidentiality concerns without sufficient justification.

The report argues that effective access to information is essential for investigative journalism, civic participation and transparency in public administration. It calls for stronger institutional compliance, capacity building for information officers and greater public awareness of citizens’ rights under the law.

Reflecting the evolving nature of media and communication, the report places significant emphasis on internet freedom and digital rights. MRCG documents concerns related to online expression, data privacy, surveillance and the regulation of digital spaces.

With more Sierra Leoneans relying on social media and digital platforms for news, advocacy and political engagement, the organisation warns against measures that could lead to over-regulation or arbitrary restrictions on online content. The report highlights the need for a balanced approach that addresses legitimate concerns such as misinformation and cybercrime, while safeguarding freedom of expression and privacy.

MRCG also notes that digital rights are increasingly intertwined with traditional press freedom, as journalists and media houses depend heavily on digital tools to gather, produce and disseminate news.

A distinctive feature of the 15th Press Freedom Report is its follow-up on cases from earlier editions. MRCG reviews the status of unresolved matters, assessing whether recommendations were implemented and whether victims of violations received redress.

That longitudinal approach, the organisation says, is intended to promote accountability and prevent the normalization of rights violations. The report observes that while some cases have seen progress through dialogue or institutional intervention, others remain unresolved, highlighting gaps in enforcement and oversight.

In its broader analysis, MRCG situates press freedom and digital rights within the wider context of democratic governance and national development. The report argues that a free, independent and safe media environment is critical for credible elections, effective service delivery and informed public debate.

The organisation cautions that shrinking civic space, whether offline or online, could weaken democratic gains and erode trust between citizens and the state. It therefore urges policymakers, security institutions, regulators and media stakeholders to work collaboratively to uphold constitutional freedoms.

The report concludes with a set of recommendations aimed at strengthening press freedom and digital rights in Sierra Leone. Those include:

● Enhanced protection mechanisms for journalists and media practitioners.

● Improved compliance with access to information laws by public institutions.

● Transparent and rights-respecting regulation of the digital space.

● Continuous dialogue between the media, government and civil society.

● Capacity building for journalists on digital safety and ethical reporting.

MRCG emphasizes that safeguarding freedom of expression is a shared responsibility, requiring commitment from state institutions, the media, civil society organisations and citizens alike.

The full 15th Press Freedom Report is available to the public and can be accessed through MRCG’s official platforms. The organisation encourages journalists, policymakers, development partners and members of the public to read the report and engage with its findings as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen democracy and human rights in Sierra Leone.

As the country continues to navigate political, technological and social change, MRCG says sustained vigilance and advocacy will be essential to ensuring that press freedom and digital rights remain protected, respected and responsive to the needs of a modern democratic society.

Download and read full report here:


https://mrcgonline.org/report-on-press-fvreedom-information-internet-and-digital-rights-in-sierra-leone-november-2025/ https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/mrcg-report-raises-questions-over-safety-access-and-freedom-in-sierra-leones-media-space/