The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has intervened in the staff protest at the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC) to promote dialogue and reduce tensions among all parties involved.

On Thursday, 8 May 2025, SLAJ President Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, along with members of the Executive, visited the SLBC headquarters with the aim of directly engaging with both the management and the protesting staff to better understand the issues and facilitate constructive communication.

During a joint address to the staff with the Director General, Nasralla encouraged employees to return to work while their grievances are addressed. “We fully acknowledge the legitimacy of the staff’s concerns,” he stated, urging for peaceful and constructive engagement to uphold the integrity of the essential national institution.

He advised staff to organize their thoughts, clearly document their grievances, and respectfully present them to the relevant authorities, including the Ministry of Labour, the SLBC Board, and the Ministry of Information and Civic Education.

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SLAJ’s engagement also sought to de-escalate a tense situation involving police and a staff member accused of making threatening statements. The Association appealed to the Sierra Leone Police to exercise restraint in their actions, particularly as mediation efforts are being carried out.

Looking ahead, a meeting convened by the Ministry of Labour is scheduled for Friday, 9 May 2025, to further discuss the staff’s concerns and work towards a peaceful resolution. SLAJ confirmed its participation and reiterated its commitment to fostering dialogue throughout the process.

The Association expressed deep concern regarding recent public exchanges, including a press release from the SLBC Board that criticized the Director General. While recognizing the importance of accountability, SLAJ called on all parties involved—the Board, Management, and Staff, to collaborate in a manner that avoids inflaming the situation.

“We encourage focus on resolving the crisis amicably through due process, institutional dialogue, and respect for the principles of natural justice,” Nasralla said. SLAJ emphasized the significance of this moment for the SLBC staff who believe that it should not be another opportunity missed for positive change.

The Association pointed out that for years, SLBC has faced cycles of unrest and unresolved grievances with each new leadership, and that the protest serves as a pivotal moment to address the root causes of those longstanding issues.

In light of that, SLAJ has urged the Ministry of Information and Civic Education to take leadership in convening a meeting with all stakeholders including SLBC Board, management, staff representatives, and relevant oversight bodies to outline a roadmap for long-term institutional reform.

“The future of SLBC as an independent, professional, and public-interest broadcaster hinges on these efforts,” Nasralla concluded.