GB News Presenter Apologizes for Criticism

Albie Amankona, a 30-year-old co-host of GB News's flagship debate program, The Saturday Five, sparked controversy during a discussion on July 20 regarding Conservative politician Suella Braverman. Amankona labeled Braverman as “divisive” and accused her of being “racist” and “bigoted” for her remarks about British Pakistani men and grooming. He argued that her comments were racist, stating that generalizing individuals based on their ethnicity is inherently prejudiced. In response to Amankona's strong statements, GB News issued a public apology to Braverman, acknowledging that his comments crossed the line between healthy debate and unnecessary offense. The broadcaster emphasized its commitment to free speech but clarified that it does not condone unjustifiable offense. The apology was shared via a Twitter/X statement on July 27, expressing regret for the upset caused to Braverman. Following the incident, Amankona removed all references to GB News from his social media profiles and has not appeared on air since. He is also known as the co-founder of Conservatives Against Racism for Equality (CARFE). Speculation about his potential dismissal has emerged, alongside criticism of GB News's handling of similar situations involving other commentators. The incident has raised questions about GB News's editorial standards, particularly regarding the treatment of commentators who express strong opinions on race, as evidenced by previous remarks made by other hosts, including Carole Malone's comments about Labour MP Diane Abbott.