A Vision for SLAJ: My Candidacy for President in 2025

Dear Esteemed Colleagues,

I am honored to formally announce my candidacy for the position of President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) in the upcoming elections scheduled for June 2025.

Over the past six years, I have diligently served SLAJ in multiple leadership capacities as Assistant Secretary, Acting Secretary General, and currently as National Secretary General. These roles have given me invaluable experience in advancing the mission of our esteemed Association, strengthening our collective voice, and championing the rights and welfare of journalists across the country.

With 15 years of uninterrupted journalism practice, I have dedicated my career to promoting truth, accountability, and press freedom. As the News Editor at AWOKO Newspaper, I have worked tirelessly to uphold journalistic integrity and professionalism. My contributions to the media landscape have also been recognized through numerous local and international media awards, further affirming my commitment to excellence.

As I embark on this journey, my vision is clear: to lead SLAJ into a future where journalists are better protected, media institutions are stronger, professional development is prioritized, and press freedom is non negotiable. I am eager to engage with you, my colleagues, to discuss our shared aspirations and the way forward for a more vibrant and independent media landscape in Sierra Leone.

I look forward to meaningful conversations in the coming months, always in full compliance with SLAJ Electoral Commission (SLAJEC) guidelines.

Together, let us build a stronger SLAJ!

Alhaji Manika Kamara

National Secretary General, SLAJ