Jalloh Charts Sierra Leone’s Progress Towards Greater Access to Information.

Sierra Leone’s Vice President Dr Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh has highlighted the country’s progress from restricted access to information towards greater openness, saying citizens now have stronger opportunities to seek answers from public institutions.

He made the remarks on Monday, 28 September 2026, while delivering the keynote address at the 17th International Conference of Information Commissioners and UNESCO International Day for Universal Access to Information in Lungi.

Reflecting on Sierra Leone’s history, Dr Jalloh recalled the country’s early newspaper culture and the restrictions that emerged during the one-party era and civil war.

“Today, looking back, how far we have come from the days of one party, from the days when citizens did not have access to information, where journalists were imprisoned in this country, to where we are, and the progress we have made, we are satisfied with what we continue to do,” he said.

For Dr Jalloh, the journey extends beyond laws and institutions to strengthening citizens’ participation in governance. He said access to information enables people to understand government decisions, participate in public affairs and hold leaders accountable.

“Access to information gives voice to citizens, particularly young people, as it enables them to engage in policy debates,” VP Juldeh Jalloh said.

Acting Chief Justice of Sierra Leone, Justice Jamestina Essie Leonora King, also outlined developments within the Judiciary aimed at expanding public access to court information.

She noted that journalists can now attend and report on court proceedings, while the Judiciary has expanded access to judgments and other court information through its website and social media platforms.

“This is all work in progress,” she said, adding that the Judiciary continues to strengthen court reporting and ensure that the right to access information is protected and enforced.

Correspondent: Aminata Turay

Office of the Vice President