By Adama Makasuba
The president of the Gambia Press Union, Isatou Keita, has called on the government to strengthen legal protections for journalists and complete long-awaited media reforms.
Delivering a statement at Bakadaji Hotel to mark World Press Freedom Day, Ms Keita said press freedom remains essential for democracy, peace, and development.
“This year’s theme highlights the essential role of independent journalism and freedom of expression in building peaceful societies amidst rising global conflict, digital threats, and disinformation,” she said.
She acknowledged improvements in The Gambia’s ranking on the Reporters Without Borders Press Freedom Index, where the country placed 46th globally and 8th in Africa, but said more progress is needed.
“The Gambia could do better, if we are able to overcome the current press freedom challenges that are affecting our performances among our peers,” she said.
Ms Keita cited several concerns, including what she described as a lack of political will to pass laws protecting journalists, incomplete media law reforms, and the introduction of new legislation that could restrict press freedom.
She also pointed to cases involving journalists who have faced arrests, legal action, or harassment while carrying out their work.
“In May 2025, journalists Sheriff Conteh and Alieu Ceesay were arrested while covering a peaceful protest in Banjul,” she said, adding that other incidents included the assault and detention of Momodou Justice Darboe at the Banjul Magistrates’ Court.
Ms Keita also raised concerns about restrictions on media access, citing incidents involving journalists such as Yusef Taylor, who was prevented from covering a Central Bank event.
She criticised proposed laws, including the Cybercrime Bill and Communication Bill, warning they could limit freedom of expression and investigative journalism.
“These new measures contradict international standards of freedom of expression and would severely affect press freedom,” she said.
Ms Keita urged the government to abandon plans for state licensing of journalists and instead support selfregulation through the Media Council of The Gambia.
She also called for the implementation of recommendations from the Truth Commission, including adopting the UN Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists.
“Protecting journalists means protecting democracy,” she added.
