President Jammeh openly favours one-party rule

The commission will draw up a code of conduct for the media, as well as accredit journalists and press organizations.

The Gambia Press Union - the umbrella body for practising journalists in the country - described the bill as "unconstitutional", and an attempt by the government to muzzle the press.

If the bill becomes law, no media outlet will be allowed to operate without an annually renewable licence, which the commission can suspend or cancel.

It can also close down media and impose big fines

Hostile press

The BBC's Ebrima Sillah in Banjul says the commission would enjoy the status of a high court, although most of its members have no legal background.

Our correspondent says it would have the power to admit evidence that would be ruled inadmissible in an ordinary court.

Journalists say they will not cooperate with the government in implementing the law.

In January, President Yahya Jammeh sealed his hold on power with a landslide victory in parliamentary polls boycotted by much of the opposition.

The opposition also accuse Mr Jammeh of fixing last year's presidential elections.

President Jammeh first seized power in a military coup in 1994, and has made it clear he favours one-party rule.