The Independent at 27: Alagi Yorro Jallow Reflects on Surviving Assassination Attempts During the Jammeh Regime

By Jarra News TV Staff Reporter

Respected Gambian journalist Alagi Yorro Jallow has reflected on what he terms a particularly grim period in the evolution of independent journalism in The Gambia. He recounts his narrow escape from death following the cessation of operations of The Independent newspaper under the regime of Yahya Jammeh.

In commemoration of the newspaper’s 27th anniversary, Jallow recounted a vivid personal account that encompassed experiences of intimidation, purported attempts on his life, unlawful detention, incidents of arson, and eventual exile. He emphasized that The Independent was targeted due to its unwavering commitment to independent journalism, despite the intensifying pressure from governmental authorities during that time.

Jallow disclosed that his life was spared following a caution from a senior security official, who allegedly warned him that remaining in the country for more than 24 hours would result in dire consequences. He recounted the chilling directive he received: “If you stay in this country for the next 24 hours, you are dead. Disappear now.”

This admonition compelled Jallow to seek refuge outside The Gambia, as he believed he had become the focus of a state-sponsored assassination scheme after earlier efforts to intimidate The Independent had proven unsuccessful.

Furthermore, Jallow acknowledged the loyalty of certain members within the country’s security apparatus, asserting that not all personnel endorsed the human rights violations perpetrated during the dictatorship. He notably commended certain individuals within the police force, military, and former National Intelligence Agency (NIA), who discreetly safeguarded journalists and civilians despite the potential threats to their own professional stability.

Among those he recognized was a senior military figure who purportedly disclosed the identities of soldiers implicated in the arson targeting The Independent’s printing facility. Another army major reportedly met with Jallow in secret to provide intelligence concerning those allegedly behind the attack, emphasizing that his moral convictions prevented him from remaining silent.

Additionally, Jallow expressed his appreciation for a prominent lawyer who contributed to shaping the legal framework that ultimately allowed for the public airing of the allegations surrounding the arson attack during parliamentary sessions.

He also conveyed gratitude to a former National Assembly member who, employing parliamentary privilege, publicly addressed the specifics of the purported arson during a debate, thereby enabling independent media to report the incident free from legal constraints.

The veteran journalist reflected on the contributions of a medical practitioner who attended to him and his colleagues without charge following their alleged torture in custody.

Jallow also recounted his interactions with the late Major Bajinka, a complex character who, as Jallow noted, intervened on two occasions to prevent members of the feared “Green Boys” from allegedly executing plans to murder him and fellow journalist ****. 

Jallow mentioned later discussions where Bajinka purportedly revealed that efforts to assassinate the journalists had been considered but subsequently aborted.

Amidst these reflections, Jallow addressed the profound emotional toll of his exile, as he was compelled to abandon his family, newspaper, and the life he had cultivated in The Gambia, ultimately concluding that his safety was at severe risk if he remained.

Throughout his narrative, Jallow maintained that while The Independent was ultimately forced to cease its operations, its foundational mission was never extinguished. He asserted that the legacy of the publication persists through those journalists who continue to demand accountability from those in power and the citizens who advocate for freedom of expression.

In describing the anniversary as transcending mere celebration, Jallow posited that it serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by journalists and others who valiantly defended press freedom during one of the nation’s most turbulent political eras.

He concluded with a tribute to all those individuals who, despite the inherent risks, opted for moral integrity over fear, thereby standing resolutely with independent journalism during its most formidable challenges.