The Media Freedom Review is a monthly publication by the Media Reform Coordinating Group (MRCG), based on ongoing monitoring and reporting on freedom of expression, press freedom, internet freedom, digital and online rights, and the safety and security of journalists in Sierra Leone.
On 30 March 2025, journalist Alusine Rehme Wilson, Northern Chairman of the Sierra Leone Sport Writers Association (SWASAL), was allegedly attacked and assaulted by supporters of the Wusum Stars Football Club while conducting post-match interviews with Bo Rangers players. He is currently receiving medical treatment and has initiated the process of filing a police report. SWASAL condemned the attack and urged the authorities to thoroughly investigate the incident.
Mr. Tejan Sheikh Rogers, a lecturer at Milton Margai Technical University, appeared in court on 17 March 2025 on a cyberstalking charge under Section 44(2)(b) of the Cyber Security and Crime Act, 2021. He allegedly used WhatsApp to post recorded audio and text messages in a group named “Maada Must Stay Campaign,” which were deemed damaging to the reputation of Vice Chancellor Dr. Philip Kanu. The matter was heard on 17 and 24 March and adjourned to 2 April 2025.
There has been no progress on the 4 February 2025 invitation of APC 2023 Presidential Flagbearer Dr. Samura Mathew Wilson Kamara by the CID Cyber Unit. The invitation was in relation to a social media video allegedly portraying him as the president-elect and endorsing related claims. The police have not commented on the matter.
On 1 March 2025, First Lady Fatima Bio, in a live Facebook session, called for the release of reality TV star Hawa Madiana Hunt, stating she had no role in her arrest or prosecution. Hunt had been charged on 8 January 2025 for allegedly insulting the President and First Lady via social media. On 4 March 2025, the Judiciary announced that the Court of Appeal Judge, Hon. Justice Tonia Barnett, had discontinued the case upon a request from the Director of Public Prosecutions, citing Section 66(4)(c) of the Constitution of Sierra Leone.
Journalist Melvin Tejan Mansaray, who was barred from Parliament in January 2024 for alleged “malicious criticism”, appeared before the Privileges and Ethics Committee on 4 March 2025. He apologized and withdrew his statements. The committee’s final report is pending.
The case concerning the murder of journalist Samuel Brima Mattia of VOPAD Radio remains in court. The main suspect, Joseph M. Lamin (Station Manager), along with two others, has been charged with conspiracy to murder and murder. The case was heard on multiple dates in March and adjourned to 2 April 2025.
Journalist Umu Thoronka reported no progress in her case after her dismissal and alleged social media harassment following a TikTok video related to a Presidential Town Hall event. The matter has been referred by SLAJ to the Independent Media Commission (IMC), which states that investigations are ongoing.
Freelance journalist Alie Badara, who received threatening calls in May 2024 for a Facebook post criticizing police conduct in anti-drug operations, reported no update on his case. He expressed frustration with the lack of progress, citing the police and ACC as obstacles.
No progress has been made in the October 2023 attack on Hope FM 93.3 by individuals allegedly sent by the landlord. The landlord is reportedly unwell and in the United States, which has delayed compensation payments, according to station proprietor Stanley Bangura.
On 11 March 2025, SLAJ submitted a position paper to Parliament on the proposed Counter Terrorism Bill 2025, expressing concern over its broad and ambiguous provisions. SLAJ warned that the Bill could threaten freedom of expression and press freedom if misused.
The MRCG’s work is supported by the National Endowment for Democracy (NED) in the United States. The organization remains committed to strengthening democratic dialogue and accountability, consolidating peace, and promoting development through a professional, independent, and sustainable media environment grounded in the right to freedom of expression and the press.