On June 19, 2024, The Alkamba Times, a Gambian-owned online news outlet, published an article titled “Environment Minister, Former LRR Governor Accused of Involvement in Illegal Transactions of Seized Logs.” The article, authored by reporter Kebba Ansu Manneh, detailed allegations against the environment minister and a former Lower River Region (LRR) Governor concerning their involvement in illicit dealings related to seized logs.
On the same day, an official letter was received by The Alkamba Times from Lawyer Momodou Drammeh, who represents Hon. Rohey John Manjang, the Minister of Environment. The letter demanded that The Alkamba Times issue a public apology to the Minister within one week. Failure to comply would result in a lawsuit for libel and defamation.
Upon receiving the legal notice, The Alkamba Times consulted with their legal team. After careful consideration, the news outlet decided to stand by their story. They responded to the Minister’s lawyer, affirming their commitment to the integrity of their reporting. The Alkamba Times declined to issue an apology, maintaining that the article was researched and written with adherence to the highest standards of journalism.
The Minister of Environment has publicly refuted the claims made in the article. Additionally, the Minister has expressed intentions to pursue legal action against both the reporter and The Alkamba Times.
In response to the legal threat, The Alkamba Times notified the Gambia Press Union (GPU). The GPU, an organization dedicated to safeguarding press freedom and journalists’ rights in The Gambia, has been made aware of the situation and is expected to provide support and guidance to The Alkamba Times and the reporter involved.
The Gambia Press Union acknowledged the notification and told Akamba Times to update the Union as matters unfold.
The Media Foundation for West Africa is concerned about the legal threat against Alkamba Times and hopes that the media organisation is able to defend its allegations. We urge all media organisations to continue to uphold journalistic standards as they seek to hold public office holders to account. We are closely monitoring this issue and hope that the outcome will enhance the credibility of Alkamba Times.
