Dr. Ceesay Defends Barrow’s Invitation to Outlaws, Calls It a Privilege for Young People

By Fatou Sillah

Dr. Ismaila Ceesay, Minister of Information, Media and Broadcasting Services, has defended President Adama Barrow’s invitation to members of the Outlaws motorsports group to accompany him to his presidential nomination, describing the gesture as a rare privilege and a demonstration of the president’s appreciation for young people.

Speaking in an interview with West Coast Radio, Dr. Ceesay said the invitation reflected President Barrow’s recognition of the group and its interest in motorsports.

He argued that members of the group should welcome the opportunity to accompany the president to the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) for his nomination ahead of the December 5 presidential election.

“If the president asks you to accompany him to his nomination, I think not every citizen has that privilege,” Dr. Ceesay said.

The minister also defended President Barrow’s recent meeting with members of the Outlaws at State House, saying the engagement was part of the government’s efforts to explore ways of supporting motorsports while ensuring that the activity is conducted in a safe and regulated environment.

According to Dr. Ceesay, the government recognizes the potential of motorsports as both a recreational activity and a contributor to economic development.

He cited Formula One as an example of how motorsports have evolved into organized industries that generate revenue and create economic opportunities in other countries.

Dr. Ceesay said President Barrow had pledged to explore the possibility of establishing a designated facility where members of the group could practice their sport safely.

He maintained that providing an appropriate venue would help create a more structured environment for motorsports enthusiasts.

Addressing questions about the timing of the president’s engagement with the group, Dr. Ceesay rejected suggestions that the meeting was politically motivated or intended to attract youth support ahead of the December 5 election.

He insisted that the president’s interaction with the Outlaws reflected an interest in supporting young people and their activities rather than an electoral strategy.