Journalist and founder of Le Quotidien Madiambal Diagne faces an international arrest warrant whilst his family endures imprisonment. I feel compelled to speak out — not only as a colleague, but as a friend who owes him more than words can express. What is happening to Madiambal is not merely a personal ordeal; it is a blow to truth, to justice, and to the fundamental freedoms that journalism seeks to defend.
Between 2009 and 2013, I lived through my own years of persecution. I was placed on a wanted persons list, and my own government sought my extradition. Those were lonely times — years when many turned away. But Madiambal did not. He stood beside me in public press conferences when doing so carried real risk. He offered professional support, moral courage, and even personal help. That kind of loyalty and integrity is rare, and I have never forgotten it.
Today, as he faces his own moment of trial, it is my turn to stand with him in solidarity and support. Madiambal Diagne is a man of principle — a journalist of integrity, a devoted family man and a steadfast believer in justice. To see him and his family deprived of their freedoms is heartbreaking and unjust. But I know that neither prisons nor political pressure can silence a conscience as strong as his. History will remember your courage and your truth.
I am deeply concerned by the arrests of Maimouna Ndour Faye, Director of 7TV, and Babacar Fall, journalist with RFM, following their interviews with Madiambal Diagne. These arrests constitute a serious attack on press freedom and the right of journalists to work without fear or pressure. No journalist should be punished for doing their job — informing the public and encouraging open, democratic debate.
To my dear friend I say: you are not alone. Many of us across the world — journalists, friends, and defenders of freedom and human rights — stand with you, speak your name, and call for an immediate release of your family — your beloved wife and two sons.
With friendship, gratitude, and unwavering solidarity.
Ndey Tapha Sosseh
Former President
Gambia Press Union
