By Lamin Njie
The Gambia Press Union today reacted to the Gambia government proclamation warning journalists against dealing with members of Operation Three Years Jotna.
Violent protests erupted in the country on Sunday resulting in the arrest of over 130 people. Two radio stations were shut down by the government while four journalists were also arrested.
The Gambia government in a statement classified Operation Three Years Jotna an illegal movement and warned journalists against dealing with them.
“Henceforth, any person, Radio Station, business or group that chooses to do business with Operation 3-Years Jotna and or promote their agenda will be in violation of this pronouncement and will face severe consequences,” the government said in a statement.
GPU held a press conference today lashing out at the government over its ‘proclamation’.
“…the proclamation contained in yesterday’s press release which appears to warn journalists against presenting divergent views is equally as dangerous as it is unlawful,” GPU said.
It added: “It has no legitimate basis, and therefore, we call on the media to disregard it and present as diverse opinions as possible on any issue of legitimate public interest and the issue of the tenure of the president is one such issue.
“We will challenge any attempt by the government to pursue further with the implementation of this proclamation.”
