Freetown, 14th October 2025 — The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has issued a strong condemnation following threats made against Truth Radio presenter Amadu Lamrana Bah, describing the incident as a grave attack on press freedom and a violation of constitutional rights.
The threats surfaced in a disturbing video circulating on social media, allegedly recorded by Madam Admire Bio. In the footage, a voice in the background is heard issuing threats and hurling abusive language at Mr. Bah, including vile and unprintable insults. The verbal assault reportedly followed Bah’s public commentary on the destructive impact of Kush, a synthetic drug ravaging Sierra Leone’s youth.
SLAJ President Alhaji Manika Kamara expressed deep concern over the journalist’s safety, calling the threats “unacceptable” and urging law enforcement to treat the matter with urgency.
“We are deeply disturbed by this report. Threats against journalists are unacceptable and must be treated with the utmost seriousness,” Kamara said.
The Association emphasized that such intimidation tactics not only endanger individual journalists but undermine the broader principles of free speech and accountability enshrined in the 1991 Constitution. SLAJ cited Section 11, which guarantees the press freedom to uphold constitutional objectives and highlight government accountability, and Section 25(1), which protects freedom of expression.
SLAJ has called on the Sierra Leone Police to launch an immediate investigation and ensure that journalists can operate without fear, intimidation, or reprisal. The Association also appealed to public officials, political actors and citizens to uphold civility and respect the media’s role as a watchdog of society.
“SLAJ stands in full solidarity with Amadu Lamrana Bah and all journalists committed to truth, accountability, and public service,” Kamara added. “An attack on one journalist is an attack on every Sierra Leonean’s right to know.”
