By Binta Jaiteh
The Gambia Press Union (GPU) has expressed concern over what it described as growing threats to press freedom and freedom of expression in The Gambia despite the country’s improved position in the 2026 World Press Freedom Index.
Presenting a statement at the 87th Ordinary Session of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights in Banjul, GPU Secretary General Modou S. Joof said The Gambia moved to 46th position globally and eighth in Africa in the 2026 Reporters Without Borders Press Freedom Index.
He, however, said several challenges continued to affect media freedom in the country.
According to the GPU, harassment and intimidation of journalists, restrictive media laws, threats of legal action against reporters, high taxes on media houses and weak implementation of the Access to Information Act remain major obstacles to independent journalism.
The union cited the arrest of journalists Sheriff Conteh and Alieu Ceesay while covering a peaceful protest in Banjul in May 2025.
It also alleged that photojournalist Matarr Jassey was assaulted by police officers during the protest.
The GPU further referred to an ongoing defamation suit filed against Kebba Ansu Manneh by Environment Minister Rohey John Manjang over reports linked to alleged illegal logging activities.
The union also raised concern over the assault and arrest of Momodou Justice Darboe at the Banjul Magistrates’ Court in March this year, as well as the interrogation of Omar P. Jallow by intelligence officers attached to the Office of the Vice President.
According to the GPU, although some restrictive laws have been repealed, proposed legislations including the Cybercrime Bill 2023 and the Communications Bill 2025 contain provisions that could undermine media independence and freedom of expression.
The union called on the African Commission to urge the Gambian government to investigate attacks on journalists, end harassment against media practitioners and fully implement media law reforms and the Access to Information Act 2021.
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