Mr. Pa Nderry Mbai is one of the few journalists who was a devoted anti-corruption and social justice fighter using the power of journalism to bring governments and institutions to account. Mr Mbai rigorously used both his Freedom Newspaper and Freedom Radio to amplify and critic policies and the ills of the Gambia Government, especially in the Jammeh regime.
The demise of the fearless Gambian journalist caught many by surprise. Its always hard to believe the loss that death suddenly brings.
Hundred of thousands of fans of the renowned Freedom Newspaper were greeted with shock and devastation as news of the sudden passing of Pa Nderry Mbai made headlines.
The expression of shock and prayers have been unstopping with eulogies that recall the strength of voice and pen for country bereft of his type of resolute and fearless journalism.
Pa Nderry was an ardent believer of the power of journalism to transform society.
His unpleasant encounter with the Jammeh regime that sought to silence him was persistent and difficult but he strived on to continuously spotlight and report the darkest stories emanating from the repressive adminstration until its fall.
His daunting journalism traits and tactful story pitching quickly separated him from the rest with Mr Mbai threading the most challenging paths to inform his audience and readers.
For many Gambians, he is The voice of the people as depicted through a committed dedication to journalism. His absence will leave a huge and irreparable void in Gambian journalism. Adieu Pa!
