A heated exchange has erupted between former Information Minister Demba Ali Jawo and his successor, Dr Ismaila Ceesay, over how government officials should handle public criticism.
In an open letter titled Advice to a Nephew, Jawo praised Dr Ceesay as “one of the most effective ministers this country has ever had,” but cautioned him against making personal remarks when responding to critics.
“Whatever word he utters has consequences,” Jawo warned, advising the minister to focus on ideas rather than personalities.
“As a cabinet minister, he should be a unifier, not quarrel with everyone.
Targeting people’s education, family or personal life is out of line for someone in his position,” he said.
Jawo reminded Dr Ceesay that it is the office he holds, not personal fame, that attracts public scrutiny.
However, Dr Ceesay swiftly fired back, dismissing Jawo’s advice and accusing him of hypocrisy.
“DA Jawo can keep his advice. I don’t need it,” he said.
“If he had expended a fraction of this energy and efficiency to his ministerial job when he was minister of information, he could have left a better legacy. But he was incompetent as Minister of information. I don’t need his advice. Instead, he should direct his advice to those whose criticisms against government are personal and bereft of policy solutions. We are just reciprocating.”
The exchange has sparked debate on social media, with many Gambians weighing in on whether public officials should engage with personal criticism or maintain public restraint.
