By Alieu Jallow
A war of words has broken out between Gambia’s Minister of Information and Broadcasting Services, Dr Ismaila Ceesay, and former information minister, Demba Ali Jawo, after a Facebook post in which Jawo both praised and criticised the sitting minister.
In his post, DA Jawo said he agreed with those who describe Dr Ceesay as “one of the most effective ministers this country has ever had,” noting that he is “outperforming all his predecessors, including my very self.”
But Jawo also advised the minister to work on his self-esteem, particularly in how he responds to critics of the government. He urged Dr. Ceesay to focus on ideas rather than personalities, warning that responding to criticism in a personal manner goes against the decorum of public service.
Jawo added that before joining the government, “very few people knew him,” stressing that it is the position he holds that attracts public scrutiny, not personal hatred. He argued that no critic “deserves to be harangued for simply criticising the government,” and called on the minister to exercise restraint and be more measured in his public engagements.
Dr Ceesay responded sharply, dismissing Jawo’s comments. “DA Jawo expends a lot of energy and efficiency these days in offering hypocritical advice. This might be perhaps due to boredom or idleness or both,” he said.
The minister went further, accusing Jawo of failing to demonstrate such energy while in office. “He was incompetent as Minister of Information. I don’t need his advice. Instead, he should direct his advice to those whose criticisms against the government are personal and bereft of policy solutions. We are just reciprocating,” Dr Ceesay fired back.
The exchange has sparked renewed debate over political communication in The Gambia, the role of criticism in a democracy, and the tone expected from public officials.
By Alieu Jallow A war of words has broken out between Gambia’s Minister of Information and Broadcasting Services, Dr Ismaila Ceesay, and former information minister, Demba Ali Jawo, after a Facebook post in which Jawo both praised and criticised the sitting minister. In his post, DA Jawo said he agreed with those who describe Dr The Fatu Network
