Charges dropped against two journalists

Reporters Without Borders notes that the authorities yesterday dropped charges of conspiracy and inciting violence against two journalists, Baboucarr Ceesay and Abubaccar Saidykhan, who were detained for four days last month. They were arrested after calling for a peaceful demonstration against the execution of detainees under sentence of death. "This decision is logical and reassuring because the charges against these journalists were absurd," Reporters Without Borders said. "We hope the authorities will now also drop a charge of 'seditious publication' against Ceesay in a separate case." Reporters Without Borders also urges the authorities to lift the suspension of two newspapers, The Standard and Daily News, without delay. More information about the two journalists and media freedom in Gambia. Photo : Baboucarr Ceesay et Abubaccar Saidykhan