By: Aminata Sesay
Lemuella Tarawallie, a seasoned journalist and staunch advocate for media professionalism, has officially declared her candidacy for the position of National Deputy Secretary-General of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ). Her announcement was made during a campaign event at the Women in the Media Sierra Leone (WIMSAL) office on Victoria Street in Freetown.
In her compelling declaration speech, Tarawallie outlined three key pillars of her campaign: professionalism, journalist welfare, and the empowerment of women in media. “I stand before you not just as a candidate, but as a daughter of this noble profession,” she stated, calling for a stronger, more united SLAJ that speaks with integrity and acts with purpose.
If elected, Tarawallie pledged to serve as what she called the “Reliable Heartbeat of SLAJ,” ensuring smooth internal communication, promoting journalistic ethics, and addressing the everyday challenges faced by media practitioners in Sierra Leone.
“Our greatest weapon remains journalistic integrity,” she said. “But integrity alone is not enough. We must also care for our own.”
Tarawallie vowed to advocate for fair wages, health coverage, legal support, and better working conditions for journalists across the country.
She also made a passionate call for the elevation of women in journalism. “To my sisters in the newsroom this is our time,” she declared, pledging to create an inclusive media space where women are not only protected but empowered to lead.
“We thrive on perspective, diversity, and truth. Women bring stories, strengths, and solutions that the world desperately needs,” she added.
Beyond her campaign promises, Tarawallie reminded her audience of the powerful role journalists play in society as watchdogs, change-makers, and voices for the voiceless.
The SLAJ elections are scheduled for June 7, 2025, and Tarawallie called for a peaceful, fair, and transparent process. “Let it be a celebration of our unity and a reaffirmation of our shared dreams,” she urged.
With over a decade of experience in journalism and a history of leadership within various media organizations, Tarawallie’s candidacy is expected to spark important discussions on inclusion, accountability, and reform within SLAJ.
Her campaign is now in full swing as she engages with members across the country, seeking support for what she describes as a “transformational journey” for the association.
