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Sierra Leone journalists have started discussing the possibility of them carrying guns in self-defense.
The move, President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), Ahmed Sahid Nasralla said, follows recent reports of alleged virtual and physical attacks on several journalists by political supporters and the police.
Mr. Nasralla expressing concerns said: “Within the last two months the SLAJ has put out four pressers condemning three virtual plus one physical attacks on journalists.
The virtual attacks, which included death threats allegedly from supporters close to the corridors of political power, were targeted at,”
The discussion on Journalists carrying guns for protection underscores the need to safeguard their safety while carrying out their duties.
In a recent Press Release, The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has expressed deep concern over the recent spate of online attacks and threats against journalists.
“These continuous online attacks on journalists for merely expressing their views and opinions on public officials and national issues are unwarranted,” stated Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, President of SLAJ.
“Democracy and good governance thrive on the right of citizens, including journalists, to freely express themselves. We are seeing a consistent pattern of fanatic and overzealous political supporters attacking journalists and political commentators whose publications they disagree with. We urge politicians and public officials to admonish their supporters to refrain from such undemocratic and ill-motivated endeavors.”
SLAJ emphasizes the importance of safeguarding the safety and well-being of journalists, both online and offline. “No journalist should fear for their life or face intimidation simply for doing their job. We urge the authorities to take swift and decisive action to investigate these threats and hold those responsible to account,” added Nasralla.
Standing in solidarity with and all journalists facing threats and harassment in Sierra Leone, SLAJ reaffirms its commitment to defending press freedom. The association is dedicated to ensuring that journalists can carry out their critical work without fear of reprisal, contributing to a more transparent and accountable society
May God forbids ….All civilian will take guns also …..
I think the inking shouldn’t be only for SLAJ but the general population who can afford and liscene. We all see the daily intimidations people go through in the hands of others.
Thiefs breaking in to loots, steal or/and kill people for properties that is not theirs. So I was thinking the thought is fine but it should cover the general people who can afford to do the needful as it will even help reduces crime rate.
Salone want turn war zone.
Everything about Sierra Leone now is gun 🔫🔫
State actors to some extent are dormant in addressing such issues. We the general populace rely on quality informations in other to see how we can contribute in ensuring that Sierra Leone 🇸🇱 becomes a conducive place for all.
Instead of daily attacks on journalists and civil society groups, let them face the law and let the law as it’s ought to be, have it full force and punish law breakers.
The safety of journalists must be a priority