National assembly member for Wuli East Constituency has criticised state broadcaster, GRTS, directive to staff to boycott covering all industrial strikes. 

Suwaebou Touray described the directive as “unconstitutional” and urged parliament to “vehemently” condemn it.

He cited section 208 of the 1997 Constitution which obliged the state broadcaster to afford fair hearing opportunities and facilities for presentation of divergent views and dissenting opinions.

“They are a state-owned television media. They have the responsibility to inform The Gambian people on any issue of national importance, [even those] not to their liking,” Mr Touray said. 

“So, it’s a complete violation of the constitution for them to come up with that and this national assembly should condemn that and ensure that no such annoncement come from that institution.”

Malick Jeng, director general of Gambia Radio and Television Services had issued a directive recently ordering his staff to shun covering strike in the country, citing their mandate is not to promote violence.

“I hereby instructing all staff of the news and current affairs department to cease to provide platforms for all organisers of industrial action (strike) in all sectors. 

“It is not in calling as the national broadcasters to promote any action that can destabilise the nation or put our people in difficult circumstances,” he said to staff. 

Reporting by Adama Makasuba