Gambiaj.com – (DAKAR, Senegal) – The investigation into the case of TFM commentator Badara Gadiaga, detained since July 9, 2025, has taken a decisive turn following his first substantive hearing before the investigating judge of the Dakar court’s first chamber on Monday, October 27. The session, focused on the main charges against him, marks a crucial step in a high-profile case that continues to spark public debate in Senegal.
Gadiaga was questioned on accusations of spreading false news, insulting a representative of the State, making statements contrary to public morals, and receiving subsidies for propaganda purposes that compromise public safety.
The latter charge, centered on alleged covert financing and a purported relationship with the digital services company GSIE Technology, has drawn particular attention.
However, the outcome of the financial investigations ordered by the presiding magistrate appears to exonerate the journalist from these suspicions. Requests sent to banks and relevant organizations reportedly found no financial transactions or links between Gadiaga and GSIE Technology.
An examination of the commentator’s bank accounts at BICIS and ACEP confirmed that both were overdrawn, which his legal team cites as evidence of the absence of any hidden funding.
Facing the judge, Gadiaga firmly rejected the accusations, declaring, “I have never had any connection, direct or indirect, with GSIE Technology. I don’t know them at all.”
GSIE Technology, led by Antoine Ngom, a key figure in Senegal’s digital industry, had already moved to distance itself from the allegations in a press release dated July 12, 2025.
The company described the claims as “malicious and unfounded accusations,” stressing that it held no account in Gadiaga’s name and maintained no commercial or personal relationship with him. It further warned that such falsehoods risk damaging its professional reputation and hinted at possible legal action against those responsible for spreading the rumors.
The findings from the financial inquiry, now corroborated by official documentation, appear to dismantle one of the core accusations driving the case. The defense believes this reinforces their position that Gadiaga’s detention is politically motivated.
Supported by a legal team comprising Djiby Diallo, Malick Fall, Alioune Badara Fall, and Abou Allassane Diallo, the journalist is reportedly preparing a request for provisional release, with his lawyers arguing that there is no longer any legal basis for his continued detention.
Observers note that this development could significantly alter the course of a case that has become emblematic of growing tensions between outspoken journalists and political authorities in Senegal.
As the investigation progresses, one fact now seems clear: no material evidence links Badara Gadiaga to GSIE Technology or any questionable source of funding, a revelation that could weigh heavily in determining the future of this widely followed affair.
