The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has welcomed the approval granted by the Chief Justice for the live broadcast of the forthcoming Supreme Court hearing on constitutional matters scheduled for Wednesday, 7 October 2026.
According to a press release issued by SLAJ on Monday, the approval follows a request made by the Association to the Judiciary on 21 September 2026 seeking permission for live coverage of the proceedings due to the national significance of the case.
The Judiciary approved the request subject to conditions aimed at preserving the dignity, decorum and integrity of the Court.
Under the arrangement, ten media houses will be accredited to cover the proceedings from inside the courtroom. SLAJ said it will work with the Sierra Leone Court Reporters Association (SLCRA) and the Judiciary’s Communications and Public Affairs Unit to coordinate the coverage.
Journalists who are not accredited, as well as members of the public, will be able to follow the proceedings through major television networks. The Independent Radio Network (IRN) has also been granted approval to broadcast the hearing live through its network of more than 40 radio stations nationwide.
The Judiciary has directed that no commentary, analysis or statements on the merits of the case should be made while the matter remains before the Court. Still photography inside the courtroom has also been prohibited.
SLAJ called on all participating media houses and journalists to uphold professionalism, accuracy, impartiality and responsibility in their reporting while respecting the authority and dignity of the Court. The Association thanked the Judiciary for facilitating greater public access to proceedings of significant constitutional importance and pledged to work closely with all stakeholders to ensure orderly and professional coverage.
