By Reporter J
The Media Reform Coordinating Group (MRCG) has released its 15th Press Freedom Report, assessing freedom of expression, press freedom, access to information, and digital rights in Sierra Leone from June to November 2025. The report examines eight key cases affecting journalists, media houses, and citizens, while following up on unresolved issues from previous editions to ensure accountability.
MRCG notes progress in Sierra Leone’s media landscape, particularly since the repeal of criminal libel laws, but highlights ongoing challenges. Journalists still face pressure covering sensitive topics such as governance, corruption, elections, and accountability, which could undermine public trust in the media.
The report emphasizes gaps in access to information, with some public bodies delaying or denying requests, and stresses that effective implementation is critical for investigative journalism and transparency. It also flags concerns about internet freedom, digital rights, data privacy, and surveillance, urging balanced regulation to safeguard online expression.
MRCG recommends enhanced protection for journalists, stronger compliance with access laws, transparent digital regulation, media-government dialogue, and capacity building on ethical and digital reporting.
The organisation calls on state institutions, civil society, the media, and citizens to jointly protect press freedom and digital rights, which are essential for a vibrant democracy.
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