Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – Twenty-one years ago, The Independent newspaper, a resolute advocate for justice and truth in The Gambia, was brutally attacked in an attempt to silence it. During a time of increased political tension and restrictions on press freedom in The Gambia, the newspaper’s then-Managing Editor, Alagi Yorro Jallow, shared a moving reflection in which he described the terrifying experience of the newspaper’s offices being raided by armed men, the devastating arson attack on its printing press, and staff members risking their lives with threats from the notorious “Junglers,” former President Yahya Jammeh’s goons.

The “Junglers” were indeed a notorious paramilitary unit known for their involvement in human rights abuses under the former regime. The act of arson against The Independent aligns with documented patterns of intimidation and violence against dissenting voices during that time.

The attack, a calculated act of intimidation, aimed to extinguish the flame of press freedom that The Independent bravely upheld. It was not the first attempt to stifle the newspaper’s critical voice, but the tangible evidence left behind—guns and ammunition belonging to the perpetrators—underscored the regime’s determination to suppress dissent.

However, from the ashes of destruction emerged an unyielding spirit. Weeks later, The Independent reopened as an underground journal with a few tenacious reporters and editors abroad and a “skeleton staff working in The Gambia.”

The Independent defiantly declared its return with the powerful editorial, “We Are Back in Business“. This proclamation, penned by Editor-in-Chief Abdoulie Sey and Managing Editor Alagi Yorro Jallow, resonated deeply with its readership, assuring them that The Independent would not be silenced.

“We are back with a flourish,” their words echoed, a testament to the unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity that defined the publication.

The editorial served not only as a response to the assault but also as a rallying cry, acknowledging the outpouring of support from readers, fellow journalists, human rights advocates, religious leaders, and the international community.

The piece poignantly reflected on the immense sacrifices made by those behind The Independent. Driven by a passion for freedom and a deep love for The Gambia, they risked their lives and resources to deliver unadulterated information to the Gambian people. Despite the option of choosing an easier path, their dedication to truth and accountability compelled them to stay.

After multiple raids, acts of arbitrary arrest and detention, and unsolved acts of arson, The Independent ceased publication in March 2006.

Twenty-one years later, as the anniversary of this dark chapter is marked, The Independent stands as a beacon of press freedom and resilience. The flames of oppression may have consumed their printing press, but they forged an unbreakable spirit that continues to guide journalists in The Gambia at present.

Gambians still honor the legacy of courage and unwavering commitment of The Independent, serving as a powerful reminder that truth, no matter how fiercely attacked, cannot be silenced.