Gambian Presidential Aide Assaults Journalist Covering Voter Registration

Banjul, The Gambia – A journalist from the independent news platform Kerr Fatou was physically assaulted by a member of the Gambian presidency while covering President Adama Barrow’s voter registration on June 2 in Banjul.

Modou E. Njie, a staffer from the Office of the President, attacked Buba Gagigo in full view of security personnel, including the Chairman of the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) and police officers stationed at McCarthy Square, where voter registration was taking place.

This is not the first time a journalist from Kerr Fatou has been targeted. In 2019, another staff member covering President Barrow’s nationwide tour was assaulted by a presidential interpreter, who accused the media outlet of political bias against the government.

Following the incident, the Gambia Press Union (GPU) dispatched a delegation to Banjul to ensure the case is handled appropriately. A formal complaint has been filed at the Banjul Police Station, where both Gagigo and his alleged attacker have given statements.

The matter is now set for criminal prosecution at the Banjul Magistrates’ Court on Friday, June 4. The GPU has called for justice, emphasizing the need to protect journalists from intimidation and violence while performing their duties.