More than a year after The Gambia’s landmark Access to Information Act came into force, its implementation remains virtually nonexistent, according to the Gambia Press Union (GPU).
GPU Secretary General Modou S. Joof, speaking on QTV on Wednesday, said public institutions have largely failed to comply with the law’s requirements, undermining its promise of transparency and accountability.
Joof explained that most government ministries have not appointed designated information officers, a legal requirement intended to facilitate public access to official records. To illustrate the problem, he recounted his own attempt to use the law last month, when he submitted requests to two ministries but received neither the requested information nor even an acknowledgment within the 21 days mandated by the Act.
“There was even no acknowledgement. After 21 days, they didn’t give me the information. It means a refusal outright,” Joof said.
He argued that denying citizens access to public information amounts to a violation of fundamental human rights and urged Gambians to challenge such refusals through the courts. Joof pointed to legal precedents in countries such as Nigeria, where litigation has helped strengthen enforcement of access to information laws.
The GPU, which played a key role in drafting the legislation, continues to support its implementation through technical committees and projects with the Information Commission. Joof noted that a new programme backed by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is expected to bolster enforcement efforts.
On the broader state of press freedom, Joof said Gambian journalists have not faced recent physical attacks, but online harassment remains a persistent concern, particularly when reporting on political issues. He emphasized that while the GPU’s primary mandate is to support professional journalists, the union is committed to defending freedom of expression for all citizens.
As the country prepares for the 2026 elections, Joof disclosed that the GPU is training social media influencers on responsible online engagement, including combating hate speech and misinformation.
“We are not leaving anyone behind,” he said
