Lawyer Basita Michael has issued a strong statement defending her prior comments about the media and the administration of President Julius Maada Bio, following criticism from the Press Secretary of State House, Yusuf Keketoma Sandi.

Michael had described the media in Sierra Leone as compromised and characterized those around President Bio as “sycophants,” which prompted a response from Yusuf Keketoma, who condemned her remarks as a “shameful misuse of free speech.”

In her recent statement, Michael affirmed the importance of freedom of expression in a democracy, noting that her intention was not to use abusive language. “Public discourse should be constructive and respectful,” she said, while asserting that her previous comments were not insulting or flippant.

Lawyer Basita framed her statements as critiques of systemic issues, including corruption allegations and perceived failures of institutions like the Anti-Corruption Commission.

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Michael explained that her use of the term “sycophant” referred to individuals who excessively flatter those in power to gain favor, which she believes can undermine governance. She urged the government to address the substantive issues she raised rather than focusing on the tone of her comments. “Let us focus on addressing the core issues raised,” she stated.

Michael further expressed disappointment over the lack of solidarity shown during incidents involving her colleagues at the Bar, who faced police violence while exercising their rights to assembly. She also defended her previous academic work, rejecting claims that it made her a “sycophant.” “To equate a single academic opinion with sycophancy… distorts the term’s meaning,” she added.

Michael concluded her statement by calling for continued constructive criticism and dialogue to strengthen democracy in Sierra Leone.