In the statement, issued by the British High Commission in the Gambia, the EU noted with concern the recent arrests of nine journalists, including executive members of the country’s umbrella body for journalists, the Gambia Press Union (GPU).
“The right to freedom of expression is fundamental to democracy and a fundamental freedom laid down in the Universal Declaration on Human Rights and African Charter on Human and People’s Rights, to which The Gambia is a member,” EU stated.
“The EU Presidency calls on the Government of The Gambia to fulfill its international obligations on human rights, and encourages and supports efforts made by all sections of the media and government to ensure freedom of expression and prevent persecution of journalists,” according to the statement.
Also, the American Embassy in the Gambia issued a similar statement, calling on authorities in Banjul to ensure media freedom and free speech.
Dakar - 01/07/2009
Pana
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