On Monday, September 2, 2024, Hassan Bruz, Northern Bureau Chief for the Sierra Leone News Agency (SLENA) and senior correspondent for the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC), received a standing ovation from the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Tawer Conteh. The recognition was given during a Public Accounts Committee (PAC) hearing held at the Port Loko District Council Conference Hall.

Hon. Conteh, who also chairs the PAC, praised Bruz for his unwavering dedication to journalism and his commitment to serving the people of Sierra Leone, particularly in the Port Loko District. The Deputy Speaker lauded Bruz’s steadfastness in promoting accountability and transparency through his reporting, qualities that have earned him respect across the country. Hon. Conteh emphasized that Bruz’s reporting style is exemplary and should serve as a model for younger journalists in the field.

The commendation took place during parliamentary hearings that scrutinized the activities of various Local Councils in the North West Region and others across Sierra Leone, which had been flagged for accountability issues. Hon. Conteh called on all attendees, including parliamentarians and stakeholders, to join him in recognizing Bruz for his outstanding contribution to the nation.

The gesture left Bruz deeply moved. “The Deputy Speaker of Parliament and Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee has made my day. It is unbelievable that this happened in the presence of such distinguished Members of Parliament and other respectable stakeholders,” Bruz expressed. Overwhelmed by the recognition, he extended his gratitude to all present.