by Alagi Yorro Jallow.
Fatoumatta: Journalism and activism serve distinct purposes and must be differentiated. Journalism focuses on reporting facts, offering impartial information, and holding the powerful to account. Conversely, activism is concerned with advocating for change and championing particular causes. The blurring of these roles can compromise the credibility and impartiality of journalism.
In The Gambia, political biases and activism have indeed presented challenges to journalistic integrity. Bestowing a journalism award on a self-proclaimed activist who has not actively engaged in journalism prompts scrutiny of the award’s criteria and standards. It is imperative that journalism awards honor individuals who are committed to the tenets of neutral reporting and ethical journalistic practices.
Some individuals will go to great lengths for validation and recognition, pursuing awards they haven’t earned. Awards seemed more merited during the despotic rule of Yahya Jammeh than in today’s democracy. It’s regrettable that individuals constantly seek insincere awards for self-promotion and personal branding.
Fatoumatta: The Gambia Press Union ought to guarantee that their awards honor genuine journalistic excellence, making a clear distinction between activism and journalism. This is crucial for preserving the profession’s credibility and maintaining the standards of ethical reporting.
