The attention of the Independent Media Commission (IMC) has been drawn to a syndicated article that appeared in a number of newspaper in Wednesday 7th November, 2011 under the heading ‘Puppeteer’s string’.
With no further intention to entertain a dialogue after this reaction, the Commission believes the writer should have been fair to quote the IMC release of 30th November, 2011 in full which among other things urged journalists to refrain from commenting on the matter for or against as the Anti Corruption Commission (ACC) has issued a statement that it is investigating the matter.
This is in keeping with best international journalistic standards as the ACC like the Police and other law enforcement agencies are under the law, legal entities and whatever matter they embark on are sub judice.
One of the underlying ideals of the media is to be consistent with national values and aspirations as well as international norms and instruments.
On the issue of new commissioners, it is in accordance with the IMC Code, legislatively approved, that all commissioners serve a total of three years in office subjected to a renewal of a further three years after which he or she becomes ineligible for reappointment.
So the change of commissioners was occasioned in a democratic and transparent manner in any case, views should be expressed without insults and malice as a good writer should be devoid of emotions and be in a position to discuss issues rather than personalities.
The IMC is not influenced by anyone or government or private institutions or political parties and its only guide is its Code of Practice which it can adequately enforce.
The IMC reaffirms its stand on the contents of the November 30, 2011 press statement and once again appeals to all journalists to refrain from taking sides in the matter while the ACC investigations are on going in order not to prejudice its findings.
Othman Sheriff is an experienced Sierra Leonean development professional, peacebuilding practitioner, professional journalist and human rights advocate with over two decades of engagement in community development, youth empowerment, education, humanitarian assistance and international development cooperation. Born and raised in Kenema District, Eastern Sierra Leone, he has dedicated much of his professional career to improving the socioeconomic conditions of vulnerable and marginalised populations, particularly disadvantaged young people, women, children and underserved rural communities.
As the Founder and Programme Director of Youth in Action for Development (YAD), Sheriff has played a leading role in mobilising international development assistance and coordinating community-driven interventions aimed at poverty reduction, sustainable livelihoods, social inclusion and grassroots development. Over the years, he has facilitated the mobilisation and implementation of development projects worth billions of Leones, supported by international development partners, including European development institutions, humanitarian organisations and United Nations agencies.
A committed advocate for free and inclusive Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), Sheriff spearheaded the establishment of the Youth Resource Academy (YRA) in 2018, through which he has championed access to practical, employment-oriented education for underprivileged youth, particularly young women, school dropouts, single mothers, widows, unemployed youth and individuals from economically disadvantaged households. So far, the Academy has provided vocational, technical and entrepreneurship training opportunities to more than 2,000 youth helping them acquire marketable skills, pursue self-employment and improve their economic independence. He also solicit funds to provide start up kits for the youth who graduated from the academy.
In addition to his development and humanitarian work, Sheriff serves as the Editor-in-Chief and CEO of Critique Echo Newspaper, using journalism as a platform to promote accountability, responsible governance, social justice and public awareness of critical socioeconomic and human rights issues.
He is a dedicate member of many international peacebuilding networks including the United Religions Initiative (URI), International Association of Educators for World Peace (IAEWP), Intercultural Leaders Network of the United Nations Alliance of Civilisations (UNAOC)`s Youth Solidarity Fund, and the alumni Association of King Hamad Youth Empowerment Awards.
Through his leadership, advocacy and international partnerships, Sheriff continues to champion a vision of Sierra Leone in which disadvantaged young people have equitable access to education and economic opportunities, women and girls live free from violence and discrimination, human rights are respected, and communities are empowered to pursue peaceful, inclusive and sustainable development.
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