By: Yangie Debora Sesay – Public Education Officer, ACC
The Prevention Department of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has presented the findings of a Draft Systems Review Report on the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) to the executive and general membership of the Association. The presentation took place on Friday, 8th September, 2023 at the Association’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the Dorwaila Inn and Suites in Kenema.The Review came about as a result of a request from the President of the Sierra Leone Association of Association (SLAJ), Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, in February 2023, for the ACC to conduct a systems review of the practices and procedures of the Association. In line with this call and mandate of the Commission, the Prevention Department conducted a holistic review on the systems and operations of SLAJ.
The Deputy Director of the Prevention Department at ACC, Samuel Muti Marah Esq., while presenting on the findings of the Report, appreciated members of the Association for the collaboration and support they have always rendered to the Commission through their various platforms.
Mr. Marah said that the review was divided into four thematic areas namely; governance structure, income and expenditure management, assets and logistics management and project management. He noted that the draft report was made in order for the executive and general membership of the Association to discuss the findings and recommendations, and to also enable them make official responses to the contents of the draft report.The Deputy Director, Prevention Department, further presented the findings, implications and recommendations on specific issues of concern raised during interviews with some staff and membership of SLAJ, and also the findings and recommendations on the general practices and procedures of the Association. He concluded that the ACC will continue to engage SLAJ to develop proper systems and policies in the Association.
Responding to the presentation of the draft report, President of SLAJ, Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, expressed appreciation to the ACC for the Commission’s prompt response to conduct the review. He assured the Commission of his unwavering commitment to ensuring the completion of the process before the end of his tenure.
Former President of SLAJ, Umaru Fofana, commended the current administration of SLAJ for subjecting themselves to such scrutiny. He also applauded the ACC for a brilliant review exercise and report, noting that most of the issues mentioned in the report were ones they have been advocating for over the years. He entreated the Association to set up a Committee to ensure that the recommendations contained in the report are implemented.
