AYV News, July 15, 2025
The Executive of the Sierra Leone Guild of Editors, led by its newly elected President, Thomas Dixon, paid a courtesy call on the Presidential Press Secretary, Yusuf Keketoma Sandi to reaffirm their commitment to promoting national progress through responsible journalism.
Welcoming the delegation, the Press Secretary expressed appreciation for their visit and underscored the important role of editors in shaping public opinion and supporting good governance. “I receive you today not just as Press Secretary to the President, but also as a brother within the media landscape. It has always been a pleasure working with the Fourth Estate. President Bio believes in a free media that holds government accountable but that accountability must be rooted in professionalism and responsibility,” he emphasised.
Introducing the Guild’s executive, National Secretary, Ishmael Saidu Kanu, called for deeper collaboration between the Guild and the Office of the Press Secretary. “We are one of your core constituencies. The Press Secretary’s office is the main hub that connects the public and the Presidency. We look forward to strengthening our coordination,” he said.
In his remarks, Guild President, Thomas Dixon thanked the Press Secretary for the warm reception and expressed the Guild’s dedication to supporting national development through factual, ethical, and balanced reporting. He also congratulated President Julius Maada Bio on his election as Chairman of the Authority of ECOWAS Heads of State and Government, noting that the Guild was proud to see Sierra Leone assume such a significant leadership role on the regional stage.
Mr. Dixon outlined the Guild’s strategic vision, which includes honoring veteran editors through lifetime achievement awards, investing in digital journalism training for editors to adapt to modern media trends, and engaging government on media-friendly advertising policies, particularly by reviewing outdated policies that limit newspaper ad revenues.
“We sincerely appreciate the government’s continued support through subventions, but we are asking for more structured collaboration to sustain and empower media institutions,” Mr. Dixon added.
Responding to the Guild’s proposals, the Press Secretary assured them of his office’s willingness to partner with the Guild in advancing their goals. “On behalf of the President, I want to assure you that we are ready to work with you on your strategic plan. Let’s explore ways to build a strong link between the Guild of Editors and the Presidency. Once you complete your strategic plan, we will explore areas of cooperation.”
He concluded by thanking the Guild for their visit and pledged to convey their congratulatory message to President Bio.
