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The President of Sierra Leone, Julius Maada Bio has praised his country’s notable advancement in the 2025 World Press Freedom Index, describing the progress as a reflection of his administration’s enduring commitment to media freedom and democratic governance.
Speaking on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day, Bio expressed pride in Sierra Leone’s climb to the 56th position out of 180 countries—an eight-place improvement from 64th in 2024. He stressed that this achievement underlines the government’s determination to create an enabling environment for a free, independent, and vibrant press.
“This progress is not accidental—it is the result of strengthened legal protections, our consistent support to the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists, and an unwavering commitment to transparency and accountability,” the President said. “Together, we have laid a stronger foundation for media freedom in our beloved nation.”
The president also paid tribute to the resilience and courage of Sierra Leone’s media professionals, acknowledging their role in shaping public discourse and advancing national development.
“As we celebrate today, I remain hopeful and confident that with continued resolve, the future of the press in Sierra Leone will shine even brighter,” he noted. “A free press powers our democracy amplifies the voices of our people, and drives progress for generations to come.”
World Press Freedom Day, observed annually on May 3, highlights the importance of a free press in fostering informed societies and strengthening democratic institutions globally.
Bio campaigned to ensure press freedom in the 2018 election. His administration has since decriminalised libel. However, critics are opposing the country’s cyber law which they say suppresses free speech in the West African nation.
The country’s Cybersecurity and Crime Act was passed in November 2021 to criminalise cyber offences as well as protection of digital assets. However, critics have voiced concern over the abuse of the act by authorities.
