As Gambians and non Gambians mourns the death of veteran journalist Deyda Hydara, another unpleasant news broke out, this time the death of Amadou A Barry alias A A Barry, former news Editor of The Daily Observer and The Point Newspaper as well. It's a sad moment for the Point and The Gambia in general. I have worked with the late Barry at the Point in the early 90's as a reporter. Barry was honest, fearless, independent minded and above all principled. He was the type of Editor who will always ensure that both the Opposition and Ruling government headed by dictator Jammeh were given fair media coverage. Editorial staff of the Daily Observer and the Point, who worked with our departed colleague can attest to this fact. He was not biased at all. He always strives for accuracy and objectivity. I can remember Barry's reaction to my first piece submitted to him for editing. All what he said was"Pa Nderry, journalism is your field. I am impressed by your writings and keep it up. I will talk to Deyda, so that we will give you the necessary encouragement and support you deserved. We need your type in this paper." As a former press officer for the defunct military junta, Barry was kind of a source for the Point, as it was always easy for him to verify scoops for the paper. His sources in government will not hesitate to confirm stories for him. The demise of such an asset is a big loss to The Gambia and the entire media fraternity. I remember visiting him at his London Corner home last year and this what he told me"Pa Nderry, i have been following your stories. You are doing a good job. The point is more vibrant today. Keep up the good work." I retorted by saying " Thanks for your encouragement. I must point out that you also contributed immensely towards my success as a journalist. We are trying to do our best to enlighten our citizens about the state of affairs" Due to his ailing health status, Barry took a voluntary retirement from the Point. His departure was badly felt by the late Deyda Hydara, Pap Saine and the entire Point editorial staff. Even though he was not physically present at the office, he tried to contribute his journalistic input by giving advise to reporters and the editorial staff. Barry was a Muslim to the core. He cared for the poor and the needy. A very humble and down to earth fellow. I am sure the murder of his long time friend and colleague Deyda Hydara might also further worsen his health condition. Barry was very close to Deyda. He was a man of truth. My condolence to the Barry family. May his soul rest in perfect peace. We pray that God will provide place for him in Janna. Amen. _________________________________________________________________ Express yourself instantly with MSN Messenger! Download today it's FREE! http://messenger.msn.click-url.com/go/onm00200471ave/direct/01/ いいいいいいいいいいいいいいいいいいいいいいいいいいいいい To unsubscribe/subscribe or view archives of postings, go to the Gambia-L Web interface at: http://maelstrom.stjohns.edu/archives/gambia-l.html To Search in the Gambia-L archives, go to: http://maelstrom.stjohns.edu/CGI/wa.exe?S1=gambia-l To contact the List Management, please send an e-mail to: [log in to unmask] いいいいいいいいいいいいいいいいいいいいいいいいいいいいい