By Ramatoulie Jawo
The Gambia Press Union (GPU) has elected Isatou Keita as its new president during a congress held on Saturday, along with new executive members tasked with leading the union for the next three years.
In a closely contested election, the following candidates emerged as part of the new executive team: Sheriff Saidykhan of The Outpost as Vice President, Meita Touray, a journalism trainer, as Treasurer, and Paul Steven Prierra of Star TV, Alieu Ceesay of QTV, Mariama Bojang of GFF Communication, Adama Makasuba of GTTV, and Nelson Manneh of Foroyaa Newspaper as Board Members.
Isatou Keita previously served as GPU Vice President under the leadership of Muhammed MS Bah over the past three years. With over a decade of experience in journalism, Kieta has worked extensively with GRTS as a reporter, producer, and presenter and is recognized for her dedication and strong work ethic.
Following her election, Ms. Keita outlined her vision for the union, emphasizing five key priorities: promoting and protecting media freedom, ensuring the safety and security of journalists, advancing media sustainability and viability, enhancing professionalism, and safeguarding journalists’ welfare.
She also pledged to strengthen legal protections for journalists by advocating for reforms to media laws to align with democratic principles and international standards. This includes reviewing defamation laws, licensing regulations, and other barriers to free expression.
“I will ensure the GPU organizes regular training and capacity-building programs on investigative journalism, data journalism, and specialized reporting areas such as health, climate change, and governance,” she committed.
With her vision and track record of dedication, Isatou Keita’s leadership signals a renewed commitment to advancing the interests of Gambian journalists and fostering a thriving, independent media landscape.