The Government has denied allegations that First Lady Fatoumata Bah-Barrow attempted to prevent UNITE National President Ebrima Dibba from boarding a ferry to Barra.

In a statement issued by the Ministry of Information, Media and Broadcasting Services, the government said Dibba was allowed to board the ferry and was not prevented from accessing the service on the instruction of the First Lady.

The ministry described claims that the First Lady sought to use the public ferry service to discriminate against Dibba on political grounds as “false and without basis.”

It stressed that public institutions belong to all Gambians and must serve citizens fairly and professionally, including Gambia Ferry Services.

The ministry also urged media organisations and members of the public to verify information before publishing or sharing claims, particularly where such claims could heighten political tensions.

The government said it remains committed to factual, responsible and transparent public communication and called on all stakeholders to uphold accuracy, fairness and accountability in public discourse.