By Kumba Leigh
Gambia Press Union in collaboration with the Point Newspaper, and Freedom House on Friday, December 16th staged the ‘Deyda Hydara Memorial Lectures’ in commemoration of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, held at TANGO, in Kanifing. The forum afforded the opportunity discuss safety of journalists, countering threats of violence, and crimes against journalists to protect freedom of expression amongst others.
Baba Hydara, son of the late Deyda Hydara, said his late father rooted a legacy of serving humanity at the time of his journalism profession.
“Recalling the death of my father that took place on the night of December 16th always brings about sad memories to his family, and loved ones”.
He however expressed delight that the truth has been revealed through the TRRC and that justice is being done through the arrests and trials of Junta members in Germany and elsewhere.
Mr Hydara remembered his late father as a press freedom fighter, voice of the voiceless, mentor, and an advocate of human rights and good governance.
The President of The Gambia Press Union, Muhammed S. Bah affirmed that late Deyda Hydara left a legacy that is worthy of recognising by the Gambian media.
“Despite the numerous challenges in the First, and Second Republics, Deyda Hydara always stood to fight for the cause of human rights, and justice. Every journalist should emulate his professionalism in the trade”.
Speaking on promoting rights, and justice, Demba Kandeh, acting Country Coordinator of Freedom House, acknowledged that The Gambia’s ranking in terms of press freedom has significantly improved, and that over the years, there has been series of trainings spearheaded by Freedom House to enhance capacities of journalists.
Speaking on safety of journalists, Lamin Jahateh of The Gambia Press Union cautioned journalists to always put into consideration their work, and home environment, and the risk factors.
“No story is worth your life, and is very important as journalists we know our risk factors, and to be aware of first aid skills to be able to maneuver violent zones,” he advised .
