Freetown, 5th October 2026- The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has welcomed the Judiciary’s approval for the live broadcast of a highly anticipated Supreme Court constitutional hearing scheduled for Wednesday, October 7, 2026.
The approval follows a request submitted by SLAJ to the Judiciary on September 21, seeking permission for live coverage of the proceedings in the public interest because of the national significance of the constitutional issues before the Court.
According to SLAJ, the Judiciary granted the request subject to conditions aimed at preserving the dignity, decorum and integrity of the Court throughout the proceedings.
Under the arrangement, 10 media houses will be accredited to provide coverage from inside the courtroom. SLAJ said it will work with the Sierra Leone Court Reporters Association (SLCRA) and the Judiciary’s Communications and Public Affairs Unit to coordinate the broadcast.
The association noted that members of the public and journalists who are not among the accredited outlets will still be able to follow the proceedings live through major television networks across the country.
In a further move to widen public access, SLAJ said the Judiciary also approved a special request for the Independent Radio Network (IRN) to carry the proceedings live through its network of more than 40 radio stations nationwide.
The Judiciary has, however, imposed restrictions on the coverage. No commentary, analysis or statements relating to the merits of the case will be permitted while the matter remains before the court. Still photography inside the courtroom has also been prohibited.
SLAJ called on journalists and participating media organisations to maintain the highest standards of professionalism, accuracy, impartiality and responsibility while respecting the authority and decorum of the Court.
The association expressed appreciation to the Judiciary for facilitating broader public access to proceedings of significant constitutional importance and pledged to work closely with court officials and accredited media houses to ensure orderly and professional coverage in line with the conditions set by the Court.
The upcoming hearing is expected to attract nationwide attention as citizens across Sierra Leone will, for the first time, have extensive access to live coverage of proceedings involving major constitutional questions before the country’s highest court.
