Sierra Leone

Mr. Chairman,
Ladies and Gentlemen.

The establishment of a pluralistic democracy, which includes the practice and strict adherence to good governance, requires a vibrant media that upholds ethical standards and serve as a watchdog on all branches of government. It is in this respect that the media has come to earn the accolade of being” the Fourth Estate” in the realm of state governance. In this critical period of post-conflict peace-building and consolidation it is required, and indeed, demanded of journalists to collect, compile and disseminate information responsibly and professionally.

We are here today to witness the signing of the Media Code of Conduct to guide the reporting and coverage of the 2007 Presidential and Parliamentary elections. This constitutes an important milestone in the development of the democratic process in Sierra Leone. The development of the Code of Conduct is a result of extensive consultations among the Sierra Leone journalists themselves at the initiative of SLAJ. We are also happy to have played a pivotal role in facilitating tec-hnical support and financial assistance towards the preparation and comprehensive discussion of this valuable document.

By signing on the Media Code of Conduct you, the members of the media, are taking an important historic step that should be matched by a strong personal and collective commitment to uphold and observe the principles articulated therein. Key among the provisions in the Code of Conduct is the provision which clearly states that all the political parties shall receive equal treatment by the media. It further calls for a “fair, truthful and balanced reporting” and calls on the media to hold themselves independent and free of any control from the political parties. I cannot over-emphasize the fact that this is the barest minimum that should be expected of any media practitioner in this noble calling.

Mr. Chairman, Members of the Fourth Estate,

The process leading up to the adoption of this code of conduct, has demonstrated the willingness of journalists to be part of the peace consolidation process in Sierra Leone. You have also manifested your readiness to contribute to a more stable country and your desire to see Sierra Leone achieve sustainable development. It is only logical that if journalists want to ensure accountability and fair play by political leaders, they must themselves play it fair and ensure that they, too, are accountable.

The media is in a permanent professional interaction with the political parties, the Government, the Courts of Law and the Parliament. To contribute to a culture of peace, it is incumbent upon every journalist to fully understand the roles in this important network of stakeholders. Journalists have a duty to balance their quest for truth with the need to respect the rights of the newsmakers. To have a strong and an impartial media, all the three pillars of the State as well as non-state actors, must be respected.

The independent media in Sierra Leone has come a long way. I wish to commend the Government for the part it has played in creating an enabling environment for the growth of the independent media, thereby allowing it the space to contribute to post-conflict peace-building. This effort is much appreciated by the International Community. While it will not be the “big brother is watching you”, you can be rest-assured that all stakeholders, including the UN and external development partners are keeping a close eye on the processes leading to the 2007 elections. In this regard the manner in which the media conducts itself will also warrant our attention.

In closing I wish to commend SLAJ for incorporating in the Media Code of Conduct a paragraph on the women’s participation in the electoral process as it is indeed a recognition of the important role women continue to play in strengthening Sierra Leone's democratic governance. Therefore, it is extremely important that the media accord equal coverage of both women and men candidates.

I thank you all for your attention.