The Gambia’s the Minister of Environment, Climate Change, and Natural Resources, has carried through her threat to sue journalist Kebba Ansu Manneh over a report she deems defamatory.
Rohey John Manjang disclosed that she has taken legal action against Manneh during a Parliamentary session in Banjul.
The legal team of the Minister filed a libel and slander suit at the high court in Banjul on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, against Manneh, a reporter with the private online newspaper Alkamba Times. She cited “malicious and unfounded allegations” made against her concerning two illegally felled mahogany trees.
The suit was in response to a June 19, 2024, publication by The Alkamba Times, titled: “Environment Minister, Former LRR Governor Accused of Involvement in Illegal Transactions of Seized Logs.” The article, authored by Manneh, alleged that the environment minister and former Lower River Region (LRR) Governor was involved in illicit dealings related to seized logs.
Following the report, the Minister threatened to sue, even though the allegation triggered an investigation. In carrying through the threat, the Minister therefore went to court despite the ongoing investigation by the Mansakonko Police.
The Media Foundation for West Africa is concerned about the suit against Manneh, especially as investigations into his allegations are yet to be concluded. While we acknowledge the right of the Minister to seek legal redress, we wish to urge the parties to seek an amicable settlement of this matter, if possible.
