By Saio Marrah
The Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) and the Media Reform Coordinating Group have condemned an attack on BBC Correspondent, Umaru Fofana by supporters of the main opposition party, All People’s Congress (APC) immediately after a press conference organized by the party.
The SLAJ press release spoke of offensive remarks directed towards his mother, persistent subjection of further indecent language and gestures, and physical threats.
Fofana was formally invited by the APC to cover the event, where the party’s presidential flag bearer, Samura M.W. Kamara addressed the media at the New Brookfield’s Hotel in Freetown on Wednesday 14th June 2023.
The confrontation reportedly occurred just outside the hall as he was hurrying to file his report during which a large group of APC supporters aggressively pursued him to the hotel car park until he was rescued by some onlookers and fellow journalists who guided him to a secure location.
According to the press release, it was not the first time the BBC and Reuters journalist has encountered similar attacks from both members and supporters of the APC, with some originating from influential figures within the party.
Fofana had brought it to the attention of the APC leadership every time the party’s supporters and members attacked him, but they had never publicly condemned the action of their members or taken any other action, according to the SLAJ press release.
“This (attack on Fofana) is so unfortunate and appalling, coming from a party that invited journalists to listen to their grievances and to help convey them to the wider public. Political parties must note that it is also their responsibility to ensure the safety and security of journalists in the course of their duty, especially during the elections period,” said SLAJ President, Ahmed, Sahid Nasralla who was quoted in the press release.
Thus, the journalist body calls on the APC to publicly denounce the recent attack on Fofana unequivocally and take appropriate action and proactive measures to encourage their supporters to desist from attacking journalists verbally and physically.
“We also call on all political parties and candidates contesting the June 24 elections to ensure the safety and well-being of journalists and other citizens engaging in their democratic duties at all times, especially with elections approaching and the political tension rising between political parties. ,” a part of the press release reads.
It said the National Publicity Secretary of the APC, Sidi Yayah Tunis, confirmed receiving a complaint from Fofana, and that he promised to take it up with the party’s leadership.
He was quoted saying, “It is unfortunate and something we do not condone. None of us was present when it happened, but we will investigate and try to identify who was involved so we take strong action.”
The Media Reform Coordinating Group (MRCG), on their Twitter account, also joined SLAJ in outrightly condemning the attack on the BBC’s correspondent.
Copyright © 2023 Politico (16/06/23)
