By Sorie Abubakar
The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists, (SLAJ) is set to approve a new constitution following its Annual General Meeting (AGM) with the theme: ‘’Charting the Way Forward: New Constitution for Inclusive and Stronger SLAJ’’ in Bo City, Southern Sierra Leone.
The Association has already amended some of its provisions in its old constitution which aims to be inclusive.
The President of the Association, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla said: “Inclusion is not just a slogan; it is a cornerstone of progress. Inclusion is a necessity for our Association to remain relevant and resilient.”
He added that the institution cannot claim to advocate for the truth if they are not internally committed to representing all voices within the profession.
“The way forward must include renewed efforts to engage and involve journalists from marginalized communities, women in journalism, and those operating in rural areas,” Nasralla said.
The Association which was founded in 1971, has championed the protection of journalists and free speech for over 50 years. The AGM is seen by many members as period to renew their vigor in uploading the principles of fairness and justice in the course of their work.
The AGM, which ended on Saturday, September 28, 2024, was graced by veteran journalists, practicing journalists and other media stakeholders.
This year’s keynote speaker was the former Chairman of the Political Parties Regulation Commission (PPRC) and now Supreme Court Judge, Abdulai Masiyambay Bangura.
However, some journalists have been critical of the presence of the current Sierra Leone Bar Association President, Tuma Gento Kamara at the AGM, noting that Tuma’s presence at the AGM is a recognition of her presidency which some lawyers disapprove vehemently.