By Feima Sesay
The Parliamentary Press Gallery of Sierra Leone (PPG-SL) has adopted a new constitution following extensive deliberations at its first Extraordinary Annual General Meeting (EAGM), marking a major milestone in the institution’s development after more than two decades of operating under its previous governing framework.
The meeting, held on September 25, 2026, at Committee Room One in Parliament, brought together members of the Gallery, officials of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), representatives of affiliate media bodies, former executives of the Gallery and officials from Parliament’s Public Relations Department.
Held under the theme, “From Draft to Covenant: Securing the Gallery’s Future,” the meeting focused on reviewing and adopting a new constitution aimed at strengthening governance, accountability and the long-term sustainability of the organisation.
Chairing the event, former PPG-SL President, Rev. Vincent Momoh, described the adoption of the constitution as a significant achievement for the Gallery, recalling that the institution was established with support from the Thomson Foundation to enhance parliamentary reporting in Sierra Leone.
He urged members to ensure that the constitution serves the long-term interests of the Gallery rather than the preferences of current office holders.
“Don’t make law for your convenience today, but make a law that will stand the test of time and for the development of the Gallery,” he advised.
President of Women in the Media Sierra Leone (WIMSAL), Estina Taylor, called for careful consideration of every constitutional provision and encouraged the Gallery to focus on sustainable funding, professional development, networking and increased member participation.
Similarly, Sierra Leone Sports Writers Association (SWASAL) President, Sahr Morris, urged members to place the institution above personal interests and ensure that the constitution protects the Gallery regardless of who occupies leadership positions.
The President of the Sierra Leone Court Reporters Association (SLCRA), Salifu, congratulated the Gallery on the milestone and emphasized the need to translate the constitutional document into practical action.
“A draft must become a commitment, and a commitment must become an action,” he said.
Sierra Leone Reporters Union (SLRU) President, Yeanor Kabia, underscored the importance of professionalism, unity and accountability, noting that parliamentary journalists play a critical role in bridging the gap between Parliament and the public.
Speaking on behalf of the Clerk of Parliament, Principal Public Relations Officer Sulaiman Bah reaffirmed Parliament’s commitment to maintaining a productive working relationship with the Gallery. He encouraged journalists to uphold accuracy, fairness and professionalism in reporting parliamentary proceedings.
Presenting the Gallery’s annual report, Acting President Feima Sesay explained that the constitutional review was undertaken to address governance issues relating to membership categories, eligibility for executive positions, dispute resolution mechanisms, financial oversight and other institutional matters.
She disclosed that the Gallery currently has 47 registered members, with three additional applications awaiting approval.
Sesay also highlighted key challenges facing the organisation, including the absence of a dedicated office, accreditation and access issues, financial constraints, inadequate working equipment and concerns relating to membership participation and discipline.
She outlined several priorities for the Gallery, including implementation of the new constitution, strengthening membership verification, conducting credible elections, organising the long-awaited PPG-SL Awards Ceremony, securing office space, expanding professional training and enhancing engagement with parliamentary authorities.
Addressing the gathering, SLAJ President Alhaji Manika Kamara urged members to ensure that the newly adopted constitution remains consistent with the SLAJ constitution.
He emphasized that while the Parliamentary Press Gallery is affiliated with SLAJ, it remains an independent media body and should not be viewed as an extension of Parliament’s Public Relations Department.
“The Gallery is not an extension of the PR Unit of the Parliament of Sierra Leone. You are an independent unit,” Kamara stated.
He further called on parliamentary journalists to provide more in-depth analysis and public education on parliamentary proceedings, while raising concerns about journalists’ safety, media access and working conditions.
Kamara also appealed to Parliament’s leadership to reconsider the ban on journalist Melvin Tejan Mansaray and allow him to resume reporting from Parliament.
Following article-by-article deliberations and amendments, members unanimously adopted the new constitution, paving the way for a new phase in the governance and institutional development of the Parliamentary Press Gallery.
The adoption of the constitution is expected to strengthen the Gallery’s operational framework and guide future reforms, including preparations for elections and efforts to enhance parliamentary journalism in Sierra Leone.