By: Fatou Krubally
Prominent opposition figure Tombong Saidy has strongly criticized The Voice newspaper for apologizing over a report, highlighting alleged rising corruption within the Presidency and the National Assembly.
Speaking on Coffee Time with Peter Gomez, Saidy questioned the newspaper’s decision, suggesting that it may have been influenced by external pressure.
The controversy stems from a recent Afrobarometer survey that indicated a sharp increase in the perception of corruption at the highest levels of government.
According to the survey, in 2018, only 19% of respondents believed there was corruption in the Presidency but by 2024, that figure had surged to 49%.
Similarly, perceptions of corruption in the National Assembly rose from 15% in 2018 to 46% in 2024.
Saidy pointed out that Afrobarometer is an independent organization, operating in 35 African countries, emphasizing that its findings are based on research rather than political bias.
During the radio program, Saidy expressed his disappointment with The Voice newspaper for retracting its report and issuing an apology. He argued that the media’s role is to report facts and cite sources, which The Voice did correctly by referencing the Afrobarometer survey.
“I don’t think The Voice should have apologized because they didn’t fabricate the findings. They only reported the facts,” Saidy stated. “Why apologize for something that is based on research? Were they pressured into doing so?”
He further suggested that the newspaper’s management should clarify whether the apology was voluntary or forced.
“Was the editor intimidated? Was there a threat, regarding their publishing license?” he questioned.
The government has not publicly demanded an apology from the newspaper, but Saidy’s remarks reflect growing concerns over press freedom and political pressure on independent media. He noted that institutions and officials often challenge negative survey findings but readily accept favourable reports.
“If the survey had shown a decline in corruption, would they have contested it? Of course not,” he said.
Saidy’s comments came at a time when media freedom remains a sensitive issue in the country.
