By Kemo Kanyi
Gambian President Adama Barrow has praised the media for what he described as responsible and balanced reporting during his recently-concluded Meet-the-People-Tour, saying an independent and credible media is essential to national development.
Speaking at the closing meeting of the tour in Banjul on Monday, Mr. Barrow commended journalists for their coverage of the nationwide engagement and urged them to maintain their independence and uphold the integrity of their profession.
“I must single out the great work of the media during this tour. They have done extremely well. So many people around the world are acknowledging their work, among them sitting and former presidents,” he said.
He advised journalists to remain responsible in their reporting, adding that public officials should recognize the importance of the media in holding them accountable.
Barrow also urged journalists to maintain impartiality and avoid aligning themselves with political parties, arguing that independence was essential to the credibility and dignity of the profession.
He said the public was more likely to trust media organisations that reported fairly and neutrally.
The president further stressed the importance of professionalism, saying journalists should protect their integrity through the quality of their work. He described professional conduct as an important means of earning public confidence and maintaining a good reputation.
Barrow also called on journalists to give greater attention to positive developments in The Gambia, arguing that media coverage could influence how the country is perceived internationally.
He cited developed countries as examples, saying their media often highlighted positive aspects of national life while giving less attention to some domestic challenges.
The president noted that such countries also faced social problems, including homelessness, which he said were not always reflected in their international image.
His remarks underscored his call for journalists to promote the country’s positive image while maintaining professional standards in their reporting.
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