Dr Ismaila Ceesay has defended the government’s controversial journalist accreditation framework, insisting it is voluntary and designed to protect reporters not control them.
Speaking live on Coffee Time, Dr Ceesay responded to criticism from former Gambia Press Union (GPU) leaders, who warned the system could bring back “permission-based journalism.”
“Journalists are our critical partners. Our intention is to protect them, give proper identification, and allow safe access to events. This is not mandatory and not about control,” he told viewers.
He explained that press cards would be issued through a joint committee including the GPU and Media Council.
The system is voluntary, giving journalists recognition, credibility, and protection while covering protests, political rallies, or government briefings.
Dr Ceesay dismissed fears that the framework would increase executive control over the media, calling the criticism “far from the truth.”
“We have no intention to censor, persecute, or interfere with journalists. This is about ethical and professional journalism,” he said.
The remarks come amid a heated national debate on press freedom, with veteran journalists cautioning against rules that could restrict independent reporting in The Gambia.
By Adama Makasuba
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