Gambia Press Union and police seek journalist safety for upcoming elections

The Gambia Press Union (GPU) and the Gambia Police Force have initiated dialogues to improve safety for journalists ahead of the 2026–2027 electoral cycle. A recent engagement involving 40 police officers and 30 media professionals focused on media freedom and the responsibilities of security forces in protecting reporters during political activities.

GPU President Isatou Keita has called for stronger safeguards and greater accountability regarding attacks on media practitioners. She noted that journalists face persistent threats of intimidation, physical assault, and online harassment from political supporters and officials. Keita expressed concern over a culture of impunity, stating that many attacks go unpunished despite being reported to law enforcement.

Minister of Information, Media and Broadcasting Services Dr. Ismaila Ceesay emphasized that the police and media hold complementary roles in sustaining democracy, with the police tasked to protect democracy and the media to promote it.