Supreme Court Approves Live Broadcast of Constitutional Amendment Bill Matter
Deborah Sorie The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has confirmed that the forthcoming Supreme Court hearing on constitutional matters will be broadcast live following approval by the Chief Justice.
The hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, October 7, 2026, according to a press release issued by SLAJ on Monday, October 5.
SLAJ said it had requested permission from the Judiciary on September 21 to broadcast the proceedings live in the public interest, citing the national significance of the constitutional matters before the Court.
The Judiciary subsequently approved the live coverage, subject to conditions aimed at preserving the dignity, decorum and integrity of the Court.
Under the approved arrangement, 10 media houses will be accredited to cover the proceedings from inside the courtroom. SLAJ said it will work with the Sierra Leone Court Reporters Association (SLCRA) and the Judiciary’s Communications and Public Affairs Unit to coordinate the media coverage.
Journalists who are not among the accredited media organisations, as well as members of the public, will be able to follow the proceedings through major television networks from their offices and homes.
SLAJ also said the Independent Radio Network (IRN) had been granted special approval to broadcast the proceedings live through its network of more than 40 radio stations across Sierra Leone.
The live broadcast will, however, operate under specific restrictions set by the Judiciary.
The Court has directed that no commentary, analysis or other statements concerning the merits or demerits of the matter should be made while the case remains sub judice.
Still photography will also not be permitted inside the courtroom during the proceedings.
SLAJ called on participating media houses and journalists to uphold professional standards, accuracy, impartiality and responsibility in their coverage while respecting the authority, dignity and decorum of the Court.
The association said the arrangement would facilitate wider public access to proceedings of significant constitutional importance.
“SLAJ will work closely with the Judiciary’s Communications and Public Affairs Unit and the accredited media houses to ensure that the live coverage is conducted in an orderly and professional manner and in accordance with the conditions set by the Court,” the statement said.