By Adama Maksuba
The Women Journalist Association of The Gambia (WoJAG) has strongly condemned the physical, verbal, and cyber-attacks on two of its members, Kaddy Jawo of Malagen and Jainaba Sonko of QTV Gambia.
The group reported that Kaddy was physically assaulted and verbally abused by security officials at the National Assembly on Monday, July 8, 2024, while she was covering parliamentary proceedings. The attacker alleged that Kaddy was not modestly dressed and would not be allowed entry into the legislative house. The assault left Ms. Jawo with life-threatening bruises on her neck.
On the other hand, Jainaba was targeted with online threats, bullying, and insults after a video of her criticizing the conduct of peaceful protesters on QTV’s morning show was circulated online.
WoJAG emphasized the unacceptability and gravity of the attacks against these journalists and urged the public and the Assembly to refrain from these practices, which threaten freedom of expression and the press.
Annette Camara, President of WoJAG, stated, the attacks against both women journalists are unacceptable and deeply concerning. Women journalists already endure a lot of challenges in their daily work. Any acts of violence against journalists, especially women, are inappropriate in any civilized society.
Banna Sabally, the association’s secretary general, advised journalists to always adhere to the Cherno Jallow Charter of Ethics while working. He emphasized that attacks on journalists threaten freedom of expression, freedom of the press, and the public and called for the public to avoid intimidating journalists.
The association also urged the National Assembly of The Gambia to address the attack on Ms. Jawo with the utmost professionalism and called on the public to refrain from subjecting vulnerable groups to online harassment. They advised the National Assembly and the public to submit complaints to the Media Council of The Gambia, which has the authority to resolve complaints against journalists.
