Radio Democracy 98.1 FM has responded to comments by Sierra Leone’s Entertainment Ambassador, Amara Dennis Turay (Kao Denero), over a report the station aired on his ongoing court matter.

The issue began after Radio Democracy reported during a news program that Kao Denero was granted bail of Le50,000 by the court. He later posted a video on social media challenging the report, insisting the information was incorrect.

The matter between Kao Denero and fellow artist Frederick Peters, widely known as Famous, is currently being heard at Pademba Road Court No. 4. Magistrate Adama Kanday is presiding over the case. Kao Denero is facing two criminal charges. These charges are related to alleged acts of incitement and intimidation, which are both considered offenses under Sierra Leonean law.

During the most recent court session held on August 18, the prosecution informed the court that lawyers representing Kao Denero had reached out to the complainant with the intention of resolving the matter outside of court. The court was told that some progress had already been made toward a possible settlement.

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In that same session, the magistrate addressed a number of social media posts that had been made by the accused while the legal process was still ongoing. The court reminded him to avoid making such statements, especially due to his position as a public figure. The reminder was intended to ensure that the ongoing legal matter is not influenced or disrupted by public commentary.

Over the weekend following the court session, Kao Denero posted a video on social media where he stated that Radio Democracy had shared incorrect information about the bail condition. In the video, he denied that the court had granted him bail in the amount of Le50,000, as stated by the station in its earlier report.

Following that statement, Radio Democracy responded by defending its report. The station stated that its coverage of the court case, including the bail amount, was based on what was said in open court. The station also addressed the issue during its regular broadcast of the Good Morning Salone program, where it again confirmed that its report was drawn from official court proceedings.

Radio Democracy producer Michael Sambola addressed Kao Denero’s public statement. He described the artist’s claims as troubling, stating that the station has always verified its facts before publishing or airing any report. The station pointed to its history of over 20 years in journalism as part of its defense. It also stated that if Kao Denero does not issue an apology, it is prepared to take legal action. The station warned that such legal action could come with consequences.

Radio Democracy has said it will continue to follow the case closely and provide updates as it develops. The station says it remains focused on sharing accurate information with the public while also maintaining its responsibility to report on issues of public interest.