SWASAL Imposes Media Blackout On Premier League Board
The Sports Writers Association of Sierra Leone (SWASAL) has imposed an indefinite media blackout on all activities of the Sierra Leone Premier League Board (PLB), citing what it describes as “blatant disregard” for the safety of journalists and failure to investigate a violent attack on one of its members.
The decision, announced in an official statement dated July 14, 2025, follows the alleged assault of Alusine Rehme Wilson, SWASAL’s Northern Region Chairman, by individuals believed to be supporters of Wusum Stars Football Club. The incident occurred on March 30, 2025, at Wusum Field in Makeni during post-match interviews with players.
According to SWASAL, despite submitting official reports and engaging the Premier League Board on multiple occasions, the matter has been met with “indifference and a lack of seriousness.” The association has strongly criticized the PLB’s inaction, stating it sets a dangerous precedent and threatens the safety and freedom of sports journalists across the country.
In its statement, SWASAL issued a three-point demand to the Premier League Board:
– Immediate Investigation into the attack on Wilson and assurances for the safety of journalists at league events.
•Accountability from the Board for the protection of all media professionals operating within league-sanctioned venues.
•Respect for journalists, with a call for constructive engagement between SWASAL and the Premier League Board.
SWASAL stated that the PLB Chairman’s recent dismissive remarks reportedly telling journalists to “go ahead and do whatever they feel like doing” has further strained relations between the two institutions. The indefinite media blackout, the association says, is a direct response to the Board’s refusal to address the issue with the seriousness it deserves.
“This decision underscores our commitment to upholding the rights and safety of media professionals,” the release emphasized.
SWASAL expressed unwavering support for Wilson and all journalists who continue to report under challenging and, at times, hostile conditions. The association has also urged its members nationwide to fully comply with the blackout and refrain from covering any activities associated with the Premier League Board until the matter is resolved.
“We stand in solidarity with our colleague and reaffirm our zero-tolerance stance against intimidation, harassment, and violence targeting journalists,” the statement concluded.
