Mr President Adama Barrow, press freedom stands as a cornerstone of our democracy, serving as a vital tool in upholding transparency, accountability, and the free flow of information within our society. In The Gambia, a nation striving for progress and democratic values, the significance of press freedom cannot be overstated. We need to explore the crucial role press freedom plays in safeguarding democracy in The Gambia and delve into why it is imperative for every journalist and politician to condemn attacks on journalists. Especially when attacks are becoming the norm.
Mr President, a flourishing democracy thrives on an informed citizenry and a robust public discourse. Press freedom acts as a catalyst, empowering journalists to investigate, report, and provide unbiased information that holds those in power accountable. It is through the freedom of the press that the voices of the people are heard, and the checks and balances necessary for a healthy democratic system are established.
Mr President, I do not think you need reminding the vital role press freedom plays in the recent years of The Gambia, marking a significant turning point from a past characterised by repression. The brave journalists who have risked their lives and liberty to uncover truths have contributed to the advancement of democracy. The press has played a crucial role in shedding light on human rights violations, corruption, and other malpractices that might have otherwise gone unnoticed.
Mr President, attacks on journalists pose a direct threat to the very essence of our democracy and the free press. When journalists are targeted, silenced, or intimidated, the information flow is disrupted, public discourse suffers, and the foundations of our democracy will begin to erode. Every journalist in The Gambia must be able to carry out their work without fear of violence, harassment, or persecution. What happened during Jammeh’s 22 years of terror must not be allowed to repeat itself as a result we must stand against the blatant disregard for the rule of law.
Mr President, it is the responsibility of every politician, civic society, media houses and the public, irrespective of political affiliations, to condemn attacks on journalists. President Barrow must come out and not just condemn with strongest terms the attacks on Pa Ousman Joof of Gambia Talent TV and Malick Cham of Jamano Media but call for the police to investigate and prosecute those responsible for the attacks. This condemnation is a matter of moral duty and a commitment to safeguarding democratic principles. By speaking out against such attacks, politicians send a strong message that they value the principles of free expression, open debate, and a vibrant democratic society.
Why Condemnation Matters:
Protection of Human Rights: Attacks on journalists violate their basic human rights and impede their ability to report on issues of public interest. Condemning these attacks reinforces the importance of protecting human rights and ensures that perpetrators are held accountable and most importantly, ensures that the TRRC “Never Again” would not be an empty slogan.
Preserving Democracy: By condemning attacks on journalists, politicians affirm their commitment to preserving and strengthening the democratic fabric of The Gambia. It sends a clear signal that a free and independent press is essential for a well-functioning democracy. Mr President, in the speech after the just concluded mayoral and chairmanship elections, you thanked the press and highlighted their importance to our democracy and the dissemination of information to the masses. Within weeks of your speech these attacks happened, how could you be true to your statement and in the same vein allow people to attack the same press with impunity?
Promoting Public Trust: Mr President, a transparent and accountable government can only be established when the public has trust in the information they receive. Condemning attacks on journalists helps build public confidence in the government’s commitment to openness, integrity, and good governance.
Freedom of Expression: Mr President, as you have alluded to in your referenced speech, journalists serve as the voice of the people, conveying diverse perspectives and fostering a culture of open dialogue. Your condemning attacks on journalists will help uphold the fundamental right to freedom of expression, enabling society to thrive through the exchange of ideas. However, Mr President, if you fail in your duty, you will be held to account in one way or another as Gambians will not stand by and allow these barbaric attacks on the citizenry without redress.
In conclusion Mr President, in The Gambia, press freedom is an indispensable asset that contributes to the growth and consolidation of our democracy. Journalists play a crucial role in holding power to account, speaking truth to power, and facilitating public discourse. Every journalist and politician must stand united in their condemnation of attacks on journalists, reinforcing the significance of press freedom in strengthening democracy. Together, by protecting the freedom of the press, we can foster a society that thrives on transparency, accountability, and the well-being of its citizens.
Gambia Voices 