Gambian President urged to drop defamation charges against journalists
Banjul, Gambia (PANA) — Veteran Gambian journalist Alagi Yorro Jallow has appealed to President Adama Barrow to drop charges of defamation against two journalists of The Voice newspaper – Musa Sheriff and Momodou Justice Darboe.
Jallow's letter to the Gambian leader, made available to PANA on Monday, states that as a media executive emeritusin The Gambia, he is compelled to voice his grave concerns over the recent defamation allegations levelled against the journalists.
He noted that these accusations, arising from their articles about the President's purported departure strategy and designated successor, have sparked considerable concern among the global community and defenders of press freedom.
“As a proponent of democratic values and a free press, I implore you to reconsider these charges. Prosecuting journalists for their reporting erodes the transparency and accountability crucial to a robust democracy. It also conveys a daunting message to the media community, which may inhibit the vital flow of ideas and information necessary for informed public debate.
“I respectfully ask that you dismiss the defamation charges against Mr. Sheriff and Mr. Darboe. Such an action would reinforce your commitment to the freedom of the press and the rights of journalists in The Gambia. It would also signify your adherence to the principles of justice and fairness, which are fundamental to your leadership.”
Jallow said Gambia should be a champion democracy by allowing journalists to perform their duties without fear of retribution and by fostering a multitude of voices to construct a more inclusive Gambia, one that embraces tolerance, civil liberties, and mutual understanding.
He said the use of libel and defamation laws to take journalists to court would signify a tolerance for the intimidation and harassment of journalists, reminiscent of the era under former President Yahya Jammeh, whose tenure was characterized by numerous human rights abuses and infringements on freedom of expression and speech.
Jallow noted that Gambia is currently ranked 50th out of 180 countries in the 2023 World Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), saying this position reflects both the challenges and the progress made in press freedom in the country. Notably, during Yahya Jammeh’s tenure, The Gambia faced severe restrictions on press freedom, which resulted in a low ranking of 152nd out of 179 countries in 2012.
The index highlighted concerns like censorship, arbitrary detentions, and harassment of journalists during Yahya Jammeh’s tenure, Jallow said, adding that it is heartening to observe the notable advancements in press freedom under the administration of President Barrow.
“During Yahya Jammeh’s rule, the right to information was consistently violated, with communications being severed or censored. Journalists faced attacks, arrests, torture, death sentences, forced exile, and the shuttering of media outlets. Incidents included nocturnal arson attacks on media houses and printing presses, as well as murders. Notably, an independent newspaper was firebombed twice, and it was forcibly closed without due process. Additionally, the case of journalist Chief Ebrimah Manneh, who vanished without a thorough investigation by the authorities, left his family and community in anguish,” Jallow wrote.
“Mr. President, the commitments to press freedom that Gambia has publicly made will be meaningless without prompt action. The objectives your administration has set, including eradicating corruption, cannot be achieved without a press that is free to operate independently, safely, and without the threat of retaliation.”
Jallow appealed to President Barrow to “immediately and unconditionally” drop all charges against the journalists, and ensure that the newspaper can promptly resume its journalistic duties.
"Mr. President, the struggle for democracy is primarily yours, yet journalists have an essential role in the democratic process of a nation. Media professionals must have the freedom to operate, fostering trust among Gambians, and strengthening democracy and the rule of law. We anticipate your complete support in this endeavor,” he said.
-0- PANA MSS/MA 21Oct2024
