Marie Sock has defended Information Minister Dr Ismaila Ceesay after he walked out of a live broadcast on Menbekereng TV.

Dr Ceesay had been invited to respond to the rejection of a ministerial appointment by Auditor General Modou Ceesay.

He ended his appearance abruptly after the presenter, Pa Modou Bojang, opened telephone lines for viewers to call in.

Dr Ceesay rejected the call-ins, warning staff before leaving the studio, stating that his participation was not intended to answer public questions.

It is unclear whether the two parties had agreed on allowing call-ins during the interview as part of the ethical terms of the programme.

The incident has prompted mixed reactions. Some have defended Dr Ceesay for walking out, while others have criticised him for avoiding public scrutiny.

Marie Sock, a politician with differing political views from Dr Ceesay, spoke in his defence on Sunday.

She said: “Citizens have the right to hold public officials accountable, but they must respect them and avoid disparagement. Dr Ceesay was right to leave the platform if he felt set up. Journalism is not about bullying.”

She added: “Professionalism is key in journalism. Respect and protection should be accorded to every guest. We must promote professionalism, respect, and discipline in our society.”

By Adama Makasuba