GRTS Journalist Resigns, Cites Political Pressure and Forced Redeployment
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By CTV Africa
A journalist with the Gambia Radio and Television Services (GRTS), Omar P. Jallow, has resigned from his position, alleging that his recent redeployment from the Office of the Vice President was politically motivated and influenced by events surrounding a community fundraiser in his home village.
In a detailed account, Jallow explained that he had been serving as a Special Correspondent attached to the Office of the Vice President since October 2024, covering official engagements. However, following his role in organizing a fundraising event in Sare Gainako, where Talib Bensouda attended as a guest, he was summoned and interrogated by an intelligence officer over the mayor’s presence, which authorities reportedly viewed as politically sensitive.
Jallow stated that despite clarifying that invitations were extended collectively by the organizing committee, he was accused of collaborating with opposition figures and labeled a “spy,” allegations he firmly denies. Days later, he was informed by GRTS Director General Abdoulie Sey that he had been redeployed back to headquarters because he was “no longer trusted” at State House.
The journalist further revealed that he was excluded from an official trip to the United States with the Vice President despite already securing a visa, and that his passport was withheld at the Protocol Office. He also described a series of meetings involving senior officials, including Seedy Njie, during which he was allegedly pressured to publicly deny reports of his interrogation and treatment as a condition for intervention on his behalf.
According to Jallow, the situation left him feeling professionally compromised and uncertain about his job security, particularly amid discussions of a possible dismissal. He said his eventual compliance with instructions to issue a public statement affected his credibility.
Citing concerns over his integrity and safety within the institution, Jallow announced his resignation, stating that he chose to step down rather than wait for a potential dismissal. The allegations have not yet been publicly addressed by GRTS or government officials at the time of reporting.
