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The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has unveiled its election timetable and regulations for the 2025 national and regional elections.
The announcement marks the official start of preparations for the leadership transition within the association as the tenure of Ahmed Sahid Nassarala draws to a close
In a statement, SLAJ’s Chief Electoral Commissioner, Zainab Iyamide Joaque outlined the key dates and guidelines for the electoral process. Nomination of candidates will officially commence on Friday, February 28, 2025, and close on Thursday, March 20, 2025.
The final list of nominees will be published on March 21, 2025, setting the stage for the campaign period.
The campaign season is scheduled to run from March 31, 2025, to June 5, 2025, with polling day set for Saturday, June 7, 2025. The elections will determine the next president and regional leaders of SLAJ, a pivotal moment for the association representing journalists across Sierra Leone.
Commissioner Joaque emphasized that only fully paid-up members—those who have cleared their dues and delegate fees—are eligible to participate in the election process. However, members who have paid their dues but not their delegate fees will be permitted to vote by proxy. Notably, SLAJ members in the host region are exempt from paying delegate fees.
The voting process will be conducted via secret ballot at a venue to be announced later. Polling will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and all delegates must vacate the voting area immediately after casting their ballots.
To ensure the integrity of the election, voters must present a valid identification card, such as a Media Institution ID, National ID, Passport, or Driver’s License, before being allowed to vote. Additionally, voters are prohibited from bringing bags, phones, or any electronic devices into the voting area. Violators risk being removed from the polling station.
Commissioner Joaque also issued a stern warning against any attempts to compromise the secrecy of the ballot. “Any voter caught taking a photo of their voting slip inside the voting booth will forfeit their vote,” she stated.
