The Judiciary of Sierra Leone, led by Chief Justice Komba Kamanda, has granted approval for the live broadcast of an upcoming Supreme Court hearing on constitutional matters, scheduled for Wednesday, 7 October 2026. This decision was welcomed by the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) on Monday, 5 October 2026, who hailed it as a significant move towards enhancing transparency and public access to justice. The live broadcast is expected to reach a wide audience, allowing citizens to follow the proceedings.
The approval was granted following a formal request by SLAJ on 21 September 2026, which highlighted the national importance of the constitutional issues to be considered by the Supreme Court. According to SLAJ, the Judiciary's approval includes conditions aimed at maintaining the dignity and integrity of the Court during the proceedings. These conditions will be enforced through collaboration between SLAJ, the Sierra Leone Court Reporters Association, and the Judiciary's Communications and Public Affairs Unit.
A total of ten media outlets will be accredited to cover the hearing inside the courtroom. Members of the public and journalists not included in the accredited list will be able to watch the proceedings live via major television networks. This will ensure that a wide audience has access to the hearing, promoting transparency and accountability in the justice system.
In addition to television coverage, the Independent Radio Network (IRN) has received approval to broadcast the hearing through its network of over 40 radio stations across Sierra Leone. This will further broaden access to the hearing, allowing citizens in different parts of the country to follow the proceedings.
SLAJ has noted that the Judiciary's approval reflects its recognition of the media's role in enhancing transparency and accountability in the justice system. Chief Justice Kamanda's decision demonstrates a commitment to open governance and increased public access to justice, while maintaining the Court's authority. The live broadcast is expected to promote a better understanding of the justice system among citizens.
However, strict conditions have been set for the live coverage. Media outlets and journalists are prohibited from offering commentary or analysis on the constitutional matters while the case is ongoing. Still photography will also be disallowed in the courtroom. SLAJ has urged all participating media to maintain high standards of professionalism, accuracy, and impartiality in their reporting, respecting the Court's authority and decorum.
SLAJ has expressed gratitude to the Judiciary for facilitating broader public access to significant proceedings and pledged to closely collaborate with the relevant bodies to ensure the live coverage adheres to the Court's requirements. The Association's efforts to promote transparency and accountability in the justice system are expected to continue, with the live broadcast of the Supreme Court hearing being a significant milestone.
Key points
- The live broadcast of the Supreme Court hearing on constitutional matters has been approved by Chief Justice Komba Kamanda.
- Ten media outlets will be accredited to cover the hearing inside the courtroom, with live coverage also available on major television networks and radio stations.
- Strict conditions have been set for the live coverage, including a prohibition on commentary, analysis, and still photography in the courtroom.
