By Lemuella Tarawallie
In a significant move to enhance the quality of legislative journalism, the Parliamentary Press Gallery of Sierra Leone (PPG-SL) held a one-day capacity-building training for its members on Wednesday, 22nd October 2025, at Committee Room One in the Parliament Building, Tower Hill.
Themed “Enhancing Parliamentary Journalism for Effective Democratic Governance,” the session aimed to equip parliamentary reporters with the skills and ethical grounding necessary for accurate, responsible, and analytical coverage of the country’s legislative processes.
The event brought together key figures from Parliament and the media landscape. In his welcome address, the Deputy Clerk of Parliament, Gilber Bosco N’habay, emphasized the institution’s commitment to a collaborative and transparent relationship with the media, noting that an informed press is crucial for democratic governance.
Feima Sesay, President of the PPG-SL, expressed gratitude for Parliament’s continued support. “Today is not just a day of learning — it is a day of reflection, growth, and reaffirmation of our shared commitment to building a more informed, professional, and united press community,” she stated. Sesay highlighted her executive’s achievements since January 2025, including restoring unity among members, strengthening institutional collaboration, and promoting financial accountability.
The sentiment of partnership was echoed by the Clerk of Parliament, Hon. Karmoh Conteh, who declared, “I have always regarded the press as a key partner and a friend of Parliament.” He commended President Julius Maada Bio for the repeal of the criminal libel law, describing it as a major victory for media freedom. Conteh also urged journalists to deepen their knowledge of parliamentary procedures and to uphold professionalism in their dress and conduct.
Alhaji Manika Kamara, President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), stressed that his organization’s role in reorganizing the PPG-SL was focused on “ensuring standards, discipline, and accountability.” He noted the symbiotic relationship between the two institutions: “Parliament needs the media to reach the people; the media needs Parliament to uphold openness and accountability.”
Further emphasis on ethical reporting came from Yeanor Kabia, President of the Sierra Leone Reporters Union (SLRU), who reaffirmed her union’s commitment to gender-sensitive reporting and equal opportunities for all journalists. The training featured practical sessions facilitated by seasoned media practitioners. Sheku Lamin Turay, Director of Communications in Parliament, spoke on “Understanding Parliament and the Techniques of Effective Reporting.” Sheku Putka Kamara, a lecturer and editor, delved into “Ethical Journalism, Social Media, and Investigative Reporting,” while Ishmael Said Kanu Esq. addressed the “Challenges and Opportunities in Parliamentary Reporting.”
The event concluded with a clear consensus: a strong, informed, and ethical press is indispensable to democracy, leaving participants with renewed enthusiasm to enhance the standards of parliamentary reporting in Sierra Leone.
