BIRCH ASSOCIATION FOR JOURNALISTS BAJ

On Thursday, July 18, 2024, frustration reached a boiling point as agents of the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority (SLRSA) staged a peaceful protest, demanding immediate action over the prolong delays in the issuance of drivers’ licenses. For months, individuals who have paid for their licenses have been left without the crucial documentation needed to legally operate, severely impacting their livelihoods. The consequences of this delay are far-reaching. Drivers without valid licenses are routinely stopped and penalized by police, creating a cycle of harassment and financial strain. Agents acting as intermediaries between customers and the SLRSA have borne the brunt of the backlash, facing constant demands from frustrated customers who have entrusted them with their payments. Foday Bangura, Public Relations Officer for the Agents of the SLRSA, addressed the Press to shed light on the dire situation. According to him, customers have been unable to obtain or renew their lice...

Freetown, July 19th, 2024: The ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) has strongly condemned statements made by Kadiru Kaikai in a recent video shared on social media. In the video, Mr. Kaikai threatened to incite violence in Sierra Leone if he is not elected President in 2028. “If I do not become president of Sierra Leone in 2028, I will mastermind and bring a big war in Sierra Leone, far worse than anybody is expecting. I am well prepared and had even budgeted for it. To bring war in Sierra Leone, one only needs 3.3 million United States Dollars to start at Masiaka,” Kaikai stated in the video. In response, the SLPP noted that they unequivocally condemn such reckless and dangerous statements,. “These views do not represent the aspirations of our members. Threats of violence and war have no place in a civilized and democratic society and must be unequivocally denounced,” stated the party’s National Secretariat. The SLPP emphasized its commitment to the safety and securi...

In a joint operation, officers from the Magburaka Police Division, led by ASP EK Toby, have made a significant arrest in the early hours of July 18, 2024. At approximately 02:12 am, Ibrahim Kalilu Turay, 18 years old and residing at 18 Bangura Street, Magburaka Town, was apprehended by police while in possession of an electrical cable suspected to be the property of EDSA. The suspect has since been taken into custody and is undergoing questioning at the Magburaka Police Station. Further updates on the investigation will be provided as more information becomes available. SLP Media Team.

Freetown, Sierra Leone – Amadu Kadiru Kaikai, a notable figure within the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), has ignited a firestorm of controversy with his recent threat to incite war in Sierra Leone if he is not elected president in the 2028 general elections. In a video circulated on social media, Kaikai, speaking in the local Krio language, declared, “If I am not given the flag bearer position, I will wage war in this country, and it will be worse than the last one.” He further asserted his readiness and financial capability to fund such a conflict, estimating the cost at $3 million. The video has triggered widespread condemnation across the nation. Prominent journalist Amadu Lamrana Bah was quick to respond, expressing his dismay on social media. “Just when people are celebrating some good news with the achievement of a compatriot, you have one reckless politician who will spoil that and take us back to a worrying state of mind,” Bah remarked. Kaikai, who resid...

Freetown, Sierra Leone – On Wednesday, July 17, 2024, Magistrate Santigie Bangura made the decision to postpone the treason trial of former President Ernest Bai Koroma until November 18, 2024. The delay was necessitated by the defense’s inability to present Koroma in court, as he is currently receiving medical treatment in Nigeria. This situation underscores the importance of addressing health issues with compassion and understanding, recognizing that even in the midst of political turmoil, the well-being of individuals remains paramount. In the wake of the defense’s failure to produce Koroma, Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Osman I Kanu and defense counsel Saidu Bangura engaged in a private discussion with Magistrate Bangura. The outcome of this meeting led to the court’s decision to reschedule the hearing. This decision highlights the judicial system’s commitment to fairness and due process, ensuring that all parties involved are given a fair opportunity to present ...

Dear Hawa Koroma, Congratulations on your outstanding achievement! Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have paid off, earning you a well-deserved promotion to Class 6 with a commendable 6th position in your class for the 2023-2024 academic year. At just 10 years old, you have demonstrated remarkable academic prowess and a bright future ahead. As you move forward into Class 6 at Young Muslim Primary School, remember that every step you take is a stride towards greatness. Success is not just about reaching the top but about the journey and the lessons learned along the way. You have shown that you have the resilience to overcome challenges and the determination to achieve your goals. Albert Einstein once said, "Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value." Your achievements in school are a testament to your value, not only as a student but as an individual who can make a positive impact on the world. Continue to...