By Fatou Dahaba
A veteran journalist, Serekunda West National Assembly member Madi Ceesay has officially entered the literary world by launching three new books to inspire future generations through shared experiences.
The event took place at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Center. It attracted a host of dignitaries, including the Secretary-General and Party leader of the United Democratic Party, various parliamentarians, politicians, and fellow authors.
The three books—Journalism: Is It a Blessing or a Curse, The Rise and Fall of the Jammeh Dictatorship, and Jaliba Kuyateh, the King of Kora—reflect Ceesay’s personal experiences as both a journalist and a citizen of The Gambia.
Among them, the 147-page volume Journalism: Is It a Curse or a Blessing discusses Ceesay’s career in journalism and details the oppressive treatment he faced during the Jammeh regime. The book recounts his struggles and achievements and explores the challenging journalistic environment of that era, highlighting the tension between political interests and journalistic integrity. Through his narrative, Ceesay sheds light on issues of censorship, arrest, and torture that were prevalent during the dictatorship.
The launch represents a significant contribution to Gambian literature and an important reflection on the country’s political history. Madi Ceesay’s work is poised to resonate with readers interested in journalism and the political landscape of the Gambia.
Madam Sally Jarju, President of The Association of Health Journalists Gambia, served as the Chief Launcher for Journalism: Is It a Blessing or a Curse? Commended Hon. Ceesay for authoring three books.
During her review, she reflected on the hostile state of press freedom in The Gambia during the previous regime, emphasizing the vital responsibilities of journalists and the significant role of the Fourth Estate in governance and public discourse.
Jarju noted the power of the pen and microphone in bringing international attention to the atrocities committed under Yahya Jammeh’s dictatorship, which ultimately informed and empowered the Gambian people to reclaim their freedom after 22 years of oppression.
“Thanks to honorable Ceesay and the brave men and women who worked tirelessly behind the scenes. We are here today, not just reflecting, but reaffirming our commitment to the values of truth, inclusion, justice, and accountability,” she stated.
Ceesay’s second book, The Rise and Fall of the Jammeh Dictatorship, delves into the complexities of Jammeh’s governance, highlighting human rights violations and the silencing of opposition voices that characterized his rule.
Rohey Malick Lowe, Mayoress of Banjul and Chief Launcher for this book, recounted its detailed narration of an era defined by authoritarianism and fear while recognizing the resilience and strength of the Gambian people.
Through these publications, Madi Ceesay contributes to an ongoing dialogue about the importance of press freedom and accountability in governance, providing insights into a pivotal chapter of The Gambia’s political history.
Mayoress Rohey Malick Lowe highlighted the significance of Madi Ceesay’s second book, emphasizing how it places Gambians at the center of their historical narrative.
She pointed out that the book offers a comprehensive understanding of past events—detailing what occurred, why it happened, and how the Gambian people collectively resisted, fought, and ultimately triumphed over oppression.
Lowe also noted that, despite delving into the darker eras of Gambian history, the narrative maintains a focus on the people’s resilience, the courage of those who opposed tyranny, and the peaceful transition of power that followed. She described the book as a powerful testament to the strength of unity and resistance, underscoring that such collective action is a force that no dictator can indefinitely suppress.
Lawyer Ousainou Darboe, the Party Leader of the United Democratic Party and the chief guest of honor at the launch, reflected on Ceesay’s journey from journalist to politician.
Darboe recounted Ceesay’s early career in the media during the 2000s when he emerged as a significant voice through impactful storytelling and eventually became managing director of a now-defunct independent newspaper.
He affirmed Ceesay’s commitment to human rights and freedom of speech when such values were often under threat, calling the decision to publish these books a natural progression in Ceesay’s evolution.
The third book centers on the renowned Kora instrument player Jaliba Kuyateh. It explores his journey in music and the evolution of his career, including the establishment of his own band.
Madi Ceesay was a notable international award-winning media practitioner who served as the president of the Gambia Press Union. He also held the position of General Manager at the Independent Newspaper, a media outlet known for its critical and often controversial stance. The publication ultimately ceased operations after facing years of persistent harassment and challenges.
