The ongoing saga within the Sierra Leone Association of Women in Journalism (SLAWIJ) has reached a critical point as Justice Jamesina King’s recent order for the association to hold its first General Meeting faces open defiance. Millicent Kargbo of the Human Rights Commission of Sierra Leone and her supporters have been accused of violating Justice King’s directives, raising concerns about contempt of court.

Plaintiff Aminata Finda Massaquoi exacerbated tensions by posting a message on her Facebook page claiming victory, a move that directly contravenes Justice King’s order that both plaintiffs and defendants and their associates should desist from using the media aimed at maintaining peace. This development has intensified the scrutiny on the association’s internal conflicts.

Adding to the controversy, a Jane B. Mansaray of Global Times whose report has been seen on social media and Globa Times has been photographed with Kargbo’s team. The image, shared by Kargbo’s proxy Williet James of Fourah Bay College, has sparked debate, especially as Mansaray published an article critical of the opposing faction. Critics argue that the article failed to present a complete picture of the Annual General Meeting issue.

Martha Kargbo of Internews, another supporter and beneficiary of SLAWIJ, has been actively sharing Mansaray’s report, further fueling the controversy.

It should be noted that Premier News and Modern Series also carried the same story defying the court order.

With the next court sitting to finalise this case scheduled for October 3, 2024, the media and public are closely watching for Justice Jamesina King’s response to these violations and her next steps to uphold judicial authority and maintain peace within SLAWIJ.