The Media Council of The Gambia (MCG) has sharply criticised the Gambia Press Union (GPU) for what it described as a “baseless, misleading, and irresponsible” report aimed at discrediting the leadership of two of the country’s key media oversight institutions.
In a strongly worded statement, the MCG expressed “grave disappointment” with the GPU’s recent publication that accuses MCG Chairperson Babucarr Cham, Executive Secretary Bai Emil Touray, and National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Chairperson Emmanuel Joof of misconduct in handling a dispute involving journalist Mustapha Darboe and former Justice Minister Abubacarr Tambedou.
According to the MCG, the GPU report failed the “basic tenets of fairness and objectivity,” as the individuals cited were neither contacted for comment nor afforded an opportunity to respond—a violation of the principle of fair hearing.
“This allegation is not only false—it is a calculated distortion intended to mislead the public and undermine the credibility of the Council,” the statement read.
The Council emphasised that its intervention in the matter was strictly mediatory, part of its legal mandate to resolve complaints within the media through dialogue and arbitration. It rejected claims that Darboe was coerced into issuing a joint statement with Tambedou, stating that the journalist retained full discretion throughout the process and that no outcome was imposed.
To highlight its track record of impartiality, the MCG cited a previous successful mediation involving journalist Yankuba Jallow and the GPU Secretary General, which also concluded with a reconciliatory outcome. This, the Council said, was evidence of its consistent and nonpartisan approach to conflict resolution in the media sector.
“The GPU’s rush to judgment, without engaging the MCG Governing Council or verifying the facts, undermines its own credibility and fails the standard of responsible journalism it purports to defend,” the statement added.
Furthermore, the Council reminded the GPU and the public of its status as an independent, legally recognised body, with internal appeal mechanisms available to any party dissatisfied with its proceedings.
In its concluding remarks, the MCG called on the GPU to reconsider its approach and act in a manner that strengthens rather than weakens the institutions essential for democratic governance and press freedom in The Gambia.
“The MCG remains committed to upholding the integrity of the media sector through dialogue, fairness, and professionalism,” the statement concluded.
