GALA has withdrawn a nomination it previously submitted for the Heroes Awards following controversy surrounding comments made by journalist Fatou Camara about President Adama Barrow.

The issue emerged after Camara, speaking during an appearance on the Dialectic Podcast, said she does not view President Barrow as corrupt.

She said her opinion was shaped by personal experiences, including visits to the residences of several African leaders, while also calling for increased leadership visibility ahead of the 2026 presidential election.

In response, GALA said the remarks do not reflect the movement’s principles and position on governance and accountability matters.

Addressing journalists during a press conference at the National Youth Parliament, GALA representatives announced that the movement would no longer participate in activities linked to the Heroes Awards.

The group subsequently withdrew its earlier nomination for the “Man of the Year” category, which had been submitted through GALA’s recommendation process.

The press conference formed part of activities ahead of the movement’s one-year anniversary celebration scheduled for Friday at the Westfield Monument.

The decision has generated debate across media and civic spaces regarding the impact of public statements on institutional affiliations and recognition platforms.

By Adama Makasuba