Freetown, 8th December, 2025 – The President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Alhaji Manika Kamara, has pledged to strengthen collaboration between the media and government while safeguarding press freedom and independence.
Speaking at the Presidential Media Cocktail held at State House, Kamara described the annual engagement as “a relaxed but meaningful atmosphere” that symbolizes the principle that “dialogue strengthens democracy, and openness deepens trust.”
It was Kamara’s first appearance at the cocktail since assuming leadership of SLAJ, following six years of service under his predecessor Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, popularly known as “De Monk.” He praised Nasralla’s leadership style, which he said emphasized “constructive engagement, principled advocacy, and unwavering independence.”
“I intend not only to continue that approach but to strengthen and expand it,” Kamara told the gathering.
Reflecting on the theme of the evening, “Strengthening Partnership and Empowering Media,” Kamara stressed that partnership does not mean silence or compromise.
“It means working collaboratively, speaking honestly, and holding government and institutions accountable in a responsible manner while maintaining mutual respect,” he said.
He reminded the audience that the media is neither an opponent of the state nor an extension of it, but “independent partners whose role is to inform, to educate, to question, and to amplify the responsible voices of citizens.”
Kamara outlined his administration’s priorities under the ACTION Manifesto, which stands for: Accountability and Professionalism, Capacity Building and Safety of Journalists, Transparency and Good Governance in SLAJ, Innovation, Digital Transformation & Media Viability, Open Collaboration with Government, Partners & Citizens & National Cohesion and Ethical Journalism
He pledged to continue working with institutions such as the Ministry of Information and Civic Education, the Independent Media Commission, RAIC, NaTCA, the Human Rights Commission, and the Sierra Leone Police to promote responsible journalism and improve working conditions for journalists.
Kamara also reaffirmed SLAJ’s commitment to pushing for legal reforms in the post-Criminal Libel era, including cyber legislation, counter-terrorism laws, and constitutional guarantees for press freedom.
Kamara noted that under his predecessor, SLAJ maintained unprecedented cooperation with the state while preserving independence.
“We debated when necessary. We disagreed when required. But we always engaged constructively. That model worked. And it will continue under my leadership,” he said.
He added: “SLAJ will support, but SLAJ will also stand firm when it must. We will partner, but we will not be compromised. We will collaborate, but never at the expense of the public interest.”
Kamara urged that the cocktail should serve as more than a ceremonial gathering, but as a renewal of commitment from both sides.
“Let it be a renewal of commitment to continue fostering an environment where journalists can work safely, professionally, and without fear; and where government continues to see the media not as a threat, but as an essential stakeholder in national development,” he said.
He called for continued support in improving journalists’ welfare, enhancing access to information, and creating opportunities for training, technology, and innovation in newsrooms.
“A media that is empowered, ethical, and independent is an asset to your administration and to Sierra Leone,” Kamara emphasized.
As the year draws to a close, Kamara extended warm greetings to President Bio, his government, and partners present.
“May our collaboration continue to be anchored on respect, truth, and a shared desire to see Sierra Leone move forward. On behalf of SLAJ and the entire media industry, Merry Christmas and New Year 2026 in advance,” he concluded.
