By Alhaji Saidu Kamara
Supreme Court Judge of the Republic of Sierra Leone who doubles as Chairman of PPRC, Hon. Justice Abdulai M. Bangura has delivered a powerful keynote address on the theme Charting the way forward: A new constitution for an inclusive and stronger SLAJ’ at the 53rd AGM of SLAJ held this past weekend at Njala Venue, in Bo.
Justice AM Bangura highlighted numerous factors that need to be addressed to move the media landscape to higher heights in Sierra Leone.
He said the role of the media has always been pivotal to the development of an informed, engaged and Democratic society.
In his welcome address, SLAJ President Mr. Ahmed Sahid Nasralla noted that SLAJ is undergoing significant transformation. It needs a constitution that is not only reflective of the past but visionary in addressing the emerging issues, associated with digital and technological innovations.
He said inclusion is not just a slogan, it is a fundamental pillar of progress and a vital necessity for our association if we are to remain relevant, resilient and forward looking in this ever-changing media landscape.
Our strength lies in the diversity of voices and without true inclusion we risk falling short of our mission to serve the public with integrity and truth.
Musa Mewa Esq the Amir of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat in Sierra Leone, who chaired the opening ceremony advised media practitioners to be mindful in their reportage, noting that journalists will have to give an account of their stewardship in the hereafter.
He warned them to be fair, truthful and be honest in their reportage.
The head of the Ahmadiyya Jamaat who was a practicing journalist at the UN radio and SLBC advised journalists to always listen to the other side of a story before going to press.
Over 600 journalists from the print and electronic media from across the country attended this year’s AGM of SLAJ which started on the 26th September and ended yesterday
