By: Lamin B. Darboe
Communication Officer, MoPS
President Adama Barrow, in his address to the media fraternity, called for a mutually beneficial relationship between the media and his government for the betterment of both parties and the country as a whole.
His Excellency, President Adama Barrow, made this appeal on the evening of Saturday, December 28, 2024, during the first-ever historic Presidential Media Dinner held at the State House in Banjul.
The event, organized by the Director of Press and Public Relations (DPPR) at the Office of the President, was themed: “Enhancing Government and Media Relations.”
President Barrow emphasized that as Gambians, everyone has distinct roles and vital responsibilities to play in building the nation and ensuring security, sustainable peace, and prosperity.
He stressed that, like the Government, the media must operate effectively and responsibly. He encouraged journalists to leverage their profession to help elevate the country.
In any democracy, he continued, media freedom, the fight against corruption, and good governance are interconnected and should be guided by respect for the rule of law.
The President further noted that the primary purpose of media criticism is to provide diverse and objective perspectives to the public, aiming to influence the Government and all stakeholders to enhance performance in policy and program implementation.
As a key partner in development and a vital public watchdog, the media’s role is indispensable in a democratic country like The Gambia, Barrow stated.
He called on the media fraternity to work in unity to accelerate the country’s development agenda and ensure progress.
Dr. Ismaila Ceesay, the Minister of Information, Media, and Broadcasting Services, praised the DPPR for organizing the event, recognizing its significance in fostering a stronger connection between the media and the presidency.
He also commended the media for their diligence, perseverance, and partnership with the government, emphasizing their critical role in informing the public about government programs and activities.
“It is your responsibility as media practitioners to promote democracy, accountability, and transparency, and to disseminate government information to the public. Your partnership with the government is essential, and it must be built on mutual respect and understanding,” Dr. Ceesay concluded.
Amie Bojang Sissoko, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Office of the President, explained that her office had chosen to hold the event outside the newsroom at Badinbung, symbolizing a space for social interaction within society.
On behalf of the Newspapers Publishers Association of The Gambia, Pap Saine, Co-founder of The Point newspaper discussed media-government relations as a partnership in development.
He appealed to President Barrow’s government to consider removing certain restrictive laws that, he argued, hindered the media’s work in the country.
“We appreciate your government’s efforts in creating a conducive environment for the media. While we may sometimes hold differing views, it is through dialogue that we can address and resolve these issues,” Mr. Saine concluded.