Alagi Yorro Jallow
Fatoumatta: In The Gambia, journalism is often politicized and tribalized, eroding the principles of independence and objectivity. While media houses have the right to shape their editorial policies, their reporting must remain grounded in fairness and truth—not allegiance to political or ideological forces.
When the Gambian government allocated a staggering 40 million dalasis to select media houses, we raised urgent concerns about the fundamental unfairness of this decision. Why should just a few favored outlets reap the benefits of such a massive sum of taxpayers’ money, while others—equally committed to serving the public—are left without any support? Excluding respected media organizations like Kerr Fatou from this funding is both unjust and indefensible.
Fatoumatta: The government’s selective funding approach has rightly drawn widespread condemnation for its discriminatory nature. However, this moment also calls for deep introspection: How can those who criticize the government for favoritism simultaneously engage in fundraising for a single journalist, rather than advocating for comprehensive support for all independent media? If fairness is the standard we demand from the government, should it not also guide our own efforts to sustain a diverse and independent journalistic landscape?
Equitable media funding plays a vital role in protecting press freedom, but it must serve all journalists, not just a select few. Selective support creates undue dependence, potentially influencing editorial independence in ways that compromise journalism’s integrity. The strength of a democracy relies not only on freedom of speech but also on equal access to resources that allow reporters to operate without bias or financial constraints.
However, there is a justified exception: when a journalist or media house faces legal battles for their reporting, financial assistance becomes essential. A Legal Defense & Welfare Fund is an appropriate and necessary mechanism to protect journalists who are targeted for exposing corruption, speaking truth to power, or defending press freedom. In such cases, Gambians must unite to ensure reporters can access legal aid and financial relief, safeguarding their ability to continue their work.
If Mustapha Darboe or The Republic were to encounter legal challenges, it would be imperative for all Gambians to rally behind them, exclusively for legal defense and welfare support. However, it is important to note that Mustapha Darboe is not currently facing legal trouble, nor does he solicit public financial support—his commitment to journalistic integrity ensures that he operates independently, without seeking undue influence.
To protect press freedom for all journalists, Gambians must advocate for structured media support, ensuring that financial aid is fair, transparent, and distributed equitably. The Gambia Press Union is best positioned to administer such funds, ensuring no journalist is left vulnerable while preventing favoritism from distorting media narratives.
Selective patronage—whether by government allocations or private donors—undermines journalism’s core principles. If we truly believe in justice and accountability, we must apply these standards consistently, ensuring that media funding strengthens press freedom rather than weakening it through bias or exclusivity.
Fatoumatta: Everyone has the right to support any individual or journalist of their choosing; however, it’s crucial to approach these donations with a sense of responsibility. In the quest to defend press freedom and safeguard independent journalists, we must strive to be inclusive and selective in our contributions. A lack of diversity in funding threatens the very foundation of press freedom. Many times, Gambians have rallied to raise funds for Freedom Newsonline and Freedom Radio, demonstrating their commitment to those platforms that empower the voiceless without seeking handouts.
Additionally, the diaspora has come together to support pioneering initiatives like Allgambia.net long before Freedom emerged on the scene. Yet, it is disheartening to see a group of diaspora Gambians selectively raising funds for The Republic while Alkamba Times grapples with critical financial challenges and a looming libel case. Supporting independent media is crucial, but it’s essential to recognize that Mustapha-Swandi K. Darboe did not initiate this funding drive.
Fatoumatta: In a recent interview on Kerr Fatou, Fatou Touray underscored the vital importance of The Republic and called for collective action to ensure it continues its impactful work. Let us unite and fortify the principles of independent journalism by supporting a diverse range of voices in the media landscape. A free press must remain independent, principled, and protected. Let’s defend the voices that fight for truth.
