The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has condemned allegations made by the ruling Sierra Leone People's Party (SLPP) National Publicity Secretary, Moses Sellu Mambu, against AYV Media Empire journalist Victor Jones. SLAJ warned that such statements could undermine journalists' professional reputations and expose them to hostility. The allegations were made during the Liberty TV Online Breakfast Show on October 19.
According to SLAJ, Mambu accused Jones of being among journalists pursuing an agenda against the SLPP. He also alleged that Jones and fellow journalist Thomas Dixon had conspired to submit a false report against him to SLAJ. Jones filed a formal complaint with SLAJ on October 21, prompting the Association to investigate the matter.
Mambu clarified that his remarks about an agenda against the SLPP referred to media houses rather than Jones personally. However, he maintained his allegation that Jones and Dixon had conspired to submit a false report against him. SLAJ's Secretary General, Edward Fara Marrah, contacted Mambu for his response.
After reviewing the available evidence, including a video recording of the broadcast, SLAJ expressed concern that the statements could damage Jones's professional reputation and expose him to unwarranted hostility. The Association found no evidence of a false report submitted by Jones and Dixon against Mambu.
SLAJ President Alhaji Manika Kamara emphasized that journalists have a constitutional responsibility to inform the public, scrutinize those in authority, and hold power to account. He stressed that their professional work should not be portrayed as an agenda against a political party simply because their reporting might be critical or uncomfortable.
The Association warned that publicly associating a named journalist with hostility towards a ruling political party could have serious implications in an already polarized environment. SLAJ urged political leaders and party officials to exercise restraint in their public statements and avoid remarks that could encourage hostility towards journalists.
SLAJ reaffirmed its commitment to ethical and responsible journalism, defending press freedom and the rights, safety, and professional dignity of journalists across Sierra Leone. The Association will continue engaging political leaders and other stakeholders to strengthen mutual understanding and ensure journalists can perform their duties without fear or favor.
Key points
- SLAJ condemns SLPP's Moses Mambu for allegations against journalist Victor Jones
- The allegations could undermine journalists' professional reputations and expose them to hostility
- SLAJ urges restraint in public statements to avoid hostility towards journalists
