In an interactive session held at his office on Saturday, 19th October 2024, Hon. Chernor Bah, also known as the Chericoco, urged the executive members of the Eastern Based Journalists Association to prioritize and champion the interests and progress of Sierra Leone.

Hon. Chericoco made this statement during a courtesy visit by members of the Eastern Based Journalists Association, an organization that seeks to promote the welfare of journalists from eastern part of the capital city.

Hon. Bah encouraged journalists to serve their conscience, act as gatekeepers, and be the watchdogs of the country. He also urged them to remain professional and focus on promoting national development and human interest stories instead of sensationalism. “Continue to serve your conscience and stay committed to your work. People will recognize your efforts in the in future,” he stated.

Hon. Bah also advised the executive not to politicize the association. “Bring everyone on board. Personal political affiliations should not hinder participation in the association’s activities,” he emphasized.

His remarks came during a courtesy call e from the newly established association.

Hon. Bah expressed his belief that Sierra Leone can achieve greatness if all its citizens prioritize peace and unity. He highlighted the crucial role journalists play in the country’s development, underscoring their importance as critical voices in safeguarding its image.

Expressing gratitude to the visiting team, Hon. Bah described the association as essential for addressing the challenges faced by journalists in eastern Freetown. He emphasized the importance of journalists thinking collectively about Sierra Leone’s progress and pledged to support their efforts to be recognized as professionals and contributors to national development.

The elected President of the Eastern Based Journalists Association, Alie Bai Kamara, who also serves as the Station Manager at Citizens Radio, described the association as a “newborn baby” aimed at addressing the issues faced by journalists in eastern Freetown. He pointed out that journalists in that area have faced with significant humiliation.

Kamara affirmed that the association is focused on providing much-needed support through mentorship and collaboration.

He noted that the visit was an opportunity to inform stakeholders about governance and foster relationships that promote development in Sierra Leone.

President Kamara praised Hon. Chernor Bah for his achievements as Deputy Speaker, Opposition Leader and running mate, highlighting his commitment to Country and empowering the younger generation in Sierra Leone.

Vice President Isaac Williams expressed gratitude to Hon. Bah for meeting with the association’s executive members, commending his support for youth and development initiatives in Sierra Leone. Williams stressed the ongoing challenges faced by journalists in eastern Freetown, including poverty, intimidation, and neglect.

He outlined the association’s plans to engage in activities such as registration and affiliation with the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ). Williams emphasized the need for support from stakeholders to ensure the association’s sustainability and to help protect and build the capacity of journalists.

The association’s Secretary General, Suajibu, echoed the sentiment that journalists in eastern Freetown are in dire need of support. He expressed optimism that the formation of the association would help protect journalists from intimidation.

Financial Secretary Saddam also addressed the circumstances surrounding the establishment of the association and its vision for supporting journalists in eastern Freetown.