Media outlets have been accused by President Adama Barrow of sowing discord and disseminating negative stories about his administration. At a meeting with Muslim elders on the eve of Eid ul-Fitr at the State House, the president voiced worries about how some media outlets influence public opinion.
“There are journalists in our nation that only cover bad news; they never cover anything good. I disagree; good news is still news, despite their belief that it is not. President Barrow said, “Some media outlets seem to be praying for chaos in the nation; they work day and night to incite conflict and instability.”
The president also supported the infrastructure achievements of his government, especially the construction of new roads, emphasising the reduction in travel time between the capital and Banjul International Airport.
It may take up to two hours to go from the airport to Banjul before I was elected president. It now only takes twenty-five minutes thanks to the new road infrastructure. Some continue to criticise our efforts, nonetheless. Can any developed nation live without decent roads? I question those who claim that road infrastructure is not a form of development. He asked.
President Barrow also underlined the necessity of national cohesion and teamwork to propel advancement, saying that ten years of consistent collaboration may change The Gambia.
“People will respect The Gambia in five to 10 years if we all work together for its sake. Even though I might not achieve all of my goals, the little I have done is already receiving recognition on a global scale. Even study tours from other nations are coming here,” he continued.
The president’s comments coincide with increased scrutiny of his administration, with online media significantly contributing to the spread of both positive and negative commentary about his leadership.
