By Kadijatu Bangura, Reporter D.S
Sierra Leone Association of Journalists President Alhaji Manika Kamara has pushed back against criticism of the body’s annual government subvention, telling members that public funding will not blunt the press’s watchdog role.
“Let me state clearly that this support is neither unusual nor a compromise of our independence,” Kamara said Thursday at the opening of SLAJ’s 55th Annual General Meeting at UNIMAK Hall. “Accepting such support does not diminish our responsibility to hold governments accountable, nor does it silence our voice when issues affecting media freedom, transparency, or good governance arise.”
The remarks came before journalists, regional executives, and invited guests, after SLAJ received its yearly subvention ahead of the Makeni gathering. The funding had prompted public debate over media independence.
Kamara argued the real measure of independence is conduct, not source of funds. “The true test is not where funding comes from, but whether the institution remains willing to speak truth to power when necessary,” he said, citing SLAJ’s record of critical reporting.
This year’s AGM, themed “Strengthening Sierra Leone’s Economy Through Responsible Journalism,” also set the stage for SLAJ’s legislative priorities. Kamara said the association is lobbying for a dedicated “Chapter 12” in the ongoing constitutional review to entrench press freedom and journalist safety in law, shielding the media from political shifts.
He further outlined SLAJ’s pivot toward specialized training as the media confronts economic and technological change. Recent programs have equipped female journalists with digital media tools and advanced skills in public financial management reporting, he noted.
SLAJ’s 55th AGM continues in Makeni with policy sessions and elections.
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