SLAJ & CHRDI Apprehensive of Stifling Press Freedom
The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) has strongly condemned the questioning of journalist, Thomas Dixon, under the Cyber Security and Crime Act of 2022, warning that the move threatens press freedom and undermines democratic principles.
Thomas Dixon, who is Editor of the New Age newspaper and Chairman of the Guild of Newspaper Editors, was invited to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) on Tuesday, after a complaint from Leone Rock Metal Group. The mining company accused him of “cyberstalking and bullying” following a news alert he published.
He endured several hours of questioning at the CID’s Cyber Unit before being released on bail of NLe 100,000. SLAJ said it actively intervened to ensure that Thomas Dixon’s rights were upheld throughout the process.
In a Press Release dated August 26, 2025 and signed by Secretary General, Edward Marah, SLAJ stressed that while it respects due process, the use of cyber laws to target journalists raises serious concerns.
“Any perception of intimidation or undue pressure on journalists can have a chilling effect on the entire media landscape,” SLAJ stated. “We call on the Sierra Leone Police and all authorities to guarantee that journalists can perform their duties without fear of harassment or retaliation.”
Backing SLAJ’s position, the Campaign for Human Rights and Development International (CHRDI) also condemned the treatment of Thomas Dixon. CHRDI said its Chief Executive accompanied the Chairman of the Guild of Editors for the interrogation to monitor and ensure the journalist’s rights were respected.
“Press freedom is a fundamental right,” CHRDI declared. “Journalists must be able to carry out their work in an environment free from intimidation. Resorting to criminal laws against reporters, sets a dangerous precedent.”
Both SLAJ and CHRDI emphasized that using the Cyber Security and Crime Act in disputes between journalists and private companies risks turning legitimate reporting into grounds for prosecution. They stressed that such actions not only endanger individual journalists, but also threaten the role of the Press in holding powerful institutions accountable.
SLAJ reaffirmed its solidarity with Thomas Dixon, while vowing to continue defending the rights of all journalists in Sierra Leone. The Association also reiterated its commitment to fostering a free, independent and safe media environment as a cornerstone of democracy.