“You cannot tell me to throw out the whole regulation”Dr Ceesay response to critics as government drops journalists registration proposal.

Speaking in an interview with West Coast Radio, Dr. Ceesay confirmed the decision: “The issue of registration of journalists, we are removing it.”

The move signals a shift after criticism from the media community over provisions in the draft rules.

Dr. Ceesay said consultations are ongoing between his ministry and the Gambia Press Union, describing collaboration as central to the reform process. He stressed both institutions are interdependent in advancing media development.

“GPU cannot succeed without the ministry, and we cannot succeed without them,” he said.

He acknowledged differences between government and the GPU but called them a natural part of reform, especially in “new terrain like social media and online content regulation.”

“Reforms are always difficult, particularly reforms in new terrain like social media and online content. It’s always difficult; you don’t expect it to be easy,” he said.

Addressing criticism of the draft, the minister suggested some concerns stem from misunderstanding the document. “Many people did not take their time to read the regulation; had they done it, they would understand that this regulation supports press freedom in this country,” he said.

He maintained the draft remains open to further review. While some provisions may be revised or removed, he said others will be retained to address issues such as inclusion and child protection online.

“You cannot tell me to throw out the whole regulation. Should I back off on inclusion? Should I back off on the protection of children from harmful content? The things that you feel are problematic, we can compromise on that,” he said.

Dr. Ceesay reiterated that the media environment remains open. “As it is right now, the media is free, and it will continue being free under my watch as far as I’m concerned,” he said.