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The Campaign for Human Rights and Development International (CHRDI) has expressed concern for the safety of journalist Thomas Dixon, following reports of threats against him.
The organization has taken proactive steps by engaging with key stakeholders, including the Inspector General (IG) of the Sierra Leone Police and the leadership of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ).
In a statement released by the CHRDI, the organization revealed that multiple attempts to contact Thomas Dixton were unsuccessful, prompting them to reach out to the IG for intervention. The IG assured CHRDI that no orders had been issued for Dixon’s arrest and pledged to make further efforts to contact him. However, he later informed CHRDI’s Chief Executive that he was unable to reach Dixon via his usual phone number.
CHRDI also updated SLAJ President Ahmed Sahid Nasralla and Secretary General Mohamed Asmieu Bah about the unfolding situation, emphasizing the need for collective action to ensure Dixon’s safety.
“The government’s role is to promote and fulfil the rights of its citizens,” the statement reads. “The role of the police is to ensure the safety of citizens, not to instil fear or insecurity.”
CHRDI reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding press freedom and urged all stakeholders to uphold the principles of justice and human rights. The organization called on the police to prioritise the protection of journalists and foster an environment where they can operate without fear of intimidation or harm.
The incident highlights ongoing challenges faced by journalists in Sierra Leone and the critical need for strengthened mechanisms to ensure their safety and freedom to report.
