The African Parliamentary Press Network (APPN) has urged the Sierra Leone Parliament to swiftly resolve the indefinite ban of journalist Melvin Tejan Mansaray from covering parliamentary proceedings.
Mansaray, a parliamentary journalist and political analyst, was barred from accessing the parliament chamber and precincts on January 10, 2025, following allegations of reckless and insulting criticism.
The APPN emphasised that the ban has already lasted for a month, and it is imperative that the parliament takes immediate action to address the situation. “Justice delayed is justice denied,” the APPN stressed, highlighting the need for a prompt resolution to this matter.
The network, which represents parliamentary reporters and communication officers across Africa, has been closely monitoring the situation, which has sparked significant reactions from key stakeholders, including the Sierra Leone Parliamentary Press Gallery and the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists.
According to the APPN, the ban on Mansaray has serious implications for press freedom and democratic accountability in Sierra Leone. The network stressed that suppressing dissenting voices risks stifling dialogue, undermining democratic principles, and weakening accountability.
“Democratic accountability requires that public officials and institutions remain open to scrutiny and criticism,” the APPN noted. “This decision risks setting a precedent that could deter journalists from engaging in robust reporting or critical analysis of parliamentary affairs.”
The APPN proposed that the Sierra Leone Parliament lodge a formal complaint with the Independent Media Commission (IMC) and initiate dialogue with all stakeholders to resolve the matter. The network also offered to facilitate discussions to resolve the impasse amicably.
Furthermore, the APPN reiterated its commitment to fostering a constructive relationship between parliament and the media, promoting mutual respect, and advancing good governance and sustainable development.
The network emphasised that it is ready to work closely with the leadership of the Sierra Leone Parliament to develop a code of conduct policy to guide the relationship between Parliament and the media.
“This will ensure that in the future when similar issues occur, there will be clear guidelines on what needs to be done and the steps to follow in doing so,” the APPN concluded.
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