Advocacy Groups Back Journalist Umu Thoronka in ECOWAS Court Petition

The Guardians of Free Speech, through the SpeakUp Movement Sierra Leone, have expressed strong support for journalist Umu Thoronka, who has filed a petition with the ECOWAS Court of Justice challenging her dismissal from the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC).

Thoronka was terminated from her role at SLBC in July 2024 after posting a video on TikTok documenting the public humiliation of a woman during a Presidential Town Hall Meeting. SLBC executives deemed the video critical of President Julius Maada Bio. Her dismissal followed years of sexual harassment and gender-based discrimination at the state-owned broadcaster.

“This case is not only about my dismissal; it reflects the broader challenges faced by women journalists in West Africa,” Thoronka said. “Speaking out against harassment and intimidation must not cost us our careers, our dignity, or our safety.”

The petition claims that the Government of Sierra Leone violated multiple regional and international human rights provisions, including Thoronka’s rights to freedom of expression, dignity, and equitable working conditions.

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It also highlights the government’s failure to investigate her complaints and the threats that forced her into exile, which advocates say illustrate systemic disregard for press freedom and the safety of women in media.

The Guardians of Free Speech and SpeakUp Movement Sierra Leone are urging the ECOWAS Court to hold Sierra Leone accountable and affirm protections for women journalists. They also call on media institutions across West Africa to dismantle cultures of impunity and ensure safe, equitable workplaces for journalists.

“Freedom of expression is non-negotiable. Justice delayed is justice denied,” the advocacy groups stated.

“No journalist should pay with dignity, livelihood, or safety for telling the truth. We stand with Umu Thoronka and all female journalists in Sierra Leone.”