By Ramatoulie Jawo
On the occasion of World Press Freedom Day, Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC) Lord Mayor Talib Ahmed Bensouda called on leaders to ensure that journalists can work freely and safely.
“The United Nations General Assembly declared May 3rd as World Press Freedom Day. As leaders, we have the responsibility to respect the right of journalists to practice their profession freely and safely, without suffering any form of retaliation from the government or any other party. We must always ensure to respect press freedom and ensure that journalists can work freely and safely,” Mayor Bensouda said.
Mayor Bensouda further stated that he is a ‘fervent’ believer that press freedom is essential to consolidate the country’s democracy.
“On this important day, I want to give due recognition and honour the remarkable work of the Gambian press and media who work tirelessly to inform educate, and enlighten us on issues despite, sometimes, difficult working conditions. To the Gambian press and media fraternity, thank you for your services, and Happy International press freedom day,” he said.
The Gambia Press Union (GPU) the umbrella body of Journalists in the country today joined the rest of the world to commemorate World Press Freedom Day.
WPFD is observed every year on the 3rd of May to raise awareness of the importance of the freedom of the press and to also serve as a reminder to governments to respect their duty and uphold the right to freedom of expression and prevent attacks on the media’s independence.