Ndongo Sillah The Unsung Hero

Ndongo Sillah: A True Activist and Champion for Democracy and Human Rights. The unsung heroes of the Gambian struggle and resistance against the dictatorship of Yahya Jammeh, fighting to restore human rights and democracy without seeking entitlement to positions or jobs. Alagi Yorro Jallow Realizing the inner self is the moment one understands that fear is unnecessary. This wisdom has been imparted by those who have truly known themselves. Mohammed Lamin Sillah, also known as Ndongo, has been actively involved since July 1994. He didn't just join the cause; he led it, battling against oppression and impunity. As a survivor of torture, he stands as a hero for democracy and human rights. Furthermore, even these teachings have been manipulated to instill fear, which, regrettably, leads to suffering. Fear is our greatest adversary, and transcending it represents the ideal state of being. It arises when we refuse to learn and rediscover our purpose on earth as the true children of the supreme God.

Do not believe that a single individual can enslave the world, for imagination cannot be restrained. Tyrants like Hitler, Stalin, or Yahya Jammeh have coerced men into accepting their rule through fear, but once people cease to fear, they cease to be controlled. The moment you are unafraid, you are free. Thus, fear not. This is the narrative of humanity. Our economy thrives on fear: the fear of war, peace, and market instability. Ndongo was an individual without fear, guided by a conscience that adhered to rational principles in harmony with the essence of human dignity. Records exist of vocal critics who opposed dictator Yahya Jammeh's oppressive regime. These individuals paid the ultimate price, paving the way for the democracy that allows today's Gambians to exercise their rights and freedoms. Many now claiming to be champions of democracy and human rights were once allies of the dictator, complicit through their silence or active support. Some sought refuge in self-imposed exile or secured positions with international organizations like the African Union, United Nations Agencies, and the World Bank. They actively worked against the democratic movement to end the dictatorship. Their actions, driven by political and financial gain, are forgotten as they now posture as defenders of democracy and opponents of corrupt rule. For a detailed account of these turncoat heroes, one should refer to "The Last 100 Days of Yahya Jammeh," which exposes the behavior of those who have now positioned themselves as democratic saints under President Adama Barrow's government.

These individuals often act unscrupulously, lying and feigning virtues to curry favor, trading integrity for personal benefit. Their deceit is not overlooked by divine judgment. History and evidence show their lack of commitment to the genuine struggle for democracy and human rights in The Gambia. The true fight for these values ended in 2016; what remains is a mere shadow of the original cause. It is crucial for Gambians to recognize the unsung heroes of democracy and human rights who fought and sacrificed for the nation's second liberation. Among them are those who truly deserve to be honored. For those of us who have worked and collaborated with Ndongo, he is not the type to question, "Where were you?" I can tell you where Ndongo was. He was certainly neither a hypocrite nor an enabler. The fight against Yahya Jammeh was prolonged and difficult, yet Ndongo Sillah was at the forefront. As Yahya Jammeh started to turn on his supporters and henchmen, who had previously mocked Ndongo and his human rights colleagues as "losers and irrelevant," Ndongo humorously remarked, "The revolution is consuming its own children." Ndongo was there from the very beginning. He didn't just join the movement; he led it, battling oppression and impunity. He is a survivor of torture and a champion of democracy. On October 22, 2001, the infamous NIA arrested Muhammed Lamin Sillah, coordinator of the Coalition of Human Rights Defenders and Secretary-General of Amnesty International's domestic chapter, following his interview with the BBC's Focus on Africa program on October 21. Ndongo Sillah informed the BBC that the country's human rights situation was unsatisfactory and required improvement. Without fear, he declared, "There is too much congenital injustice, demonic oppression, ruthless dictatorship, and agonizing poverty in this country today. Until these destructive vices of governance are eradicated from this country, neither continuous imprisonment nor even threats of assassination will deter me from the people's cause." This was the statement of Mohammed Lamin Sillah, Amnesty International, Gambia, on global media when many Gambians were too frightened to criticize or denounce the regime.

In another interview granted to the Independent newspaper on October 30, 2001, he was detained incommunicado after criticizing and denouncing the Jammeh regime's human rights violations to both local and global media. Nevertheless, he was released on bail for $18,000 (300,000 dalasis) after his case was taken to the High Court. for a habeas corpus hearing.The NIA charged Sillah with inciting genocide, causing confusion, and attempting to overthrow the government; however, Sillah refuted these claims as baseless. Ndongo Sillah stood at the vanguard of the Human Rights movement at a time when many Gambians were too fearful to speak up, or chose silence out of self-interest or self-preservation. Ndongo Sillah has wielded the pen to educate, enlighten, and motivate. He has established himself as a paragon of activism, a man deeply knowledgeable about democracy and human rights. He has vividly recalled history for us, sharply connected the dots, bridged the gaps in our collective memory, and led us on journeys of freedom and human emancipation, infusing his work in human rights activism with beauty and elegance. Every Gambian engaged in the democratic struggle admired his writings, where history, philosophy, law, and political science converged to celebrate his esteemed lineage, cultural pride, and sharp intellect. He expressed himself with freedom, ease, and effectiveness.

2 CAF Officers Completed Training In China

The Gambia Armed Forces (GAF) welcomes home Captain John Jatta and Captain Abdoulie Secka who recently returned from an 11-month military training course in the People’s Republic of China. The two officers underwent the Junior Infantry Commanding Officers’ Course at the prestigious Chinese Army Infantry College in Shijiazhuang and the Armoured Elementary (Junior) Command Programme at the Chinese Army Academy of Armoured Forces in Bengbu respectively.

During the period, Captain Jatta learnt the Basic Chinese language in addition to infantry modules such as Small Arms, Military Topography, Arms Techniques and Tactical Employment, Element of Combat readiness, Squad and Team Tactics, Company and Platoon Tactics, amongst others.

On the other hand, Captain Secka, an armoured trained Officer studied Elementary Chinese together with modules such as, Knowledge of Service and Arms, Armoured Forces Commanding Information System, Tank Weapon Development, Tank Communication, driving and firing, Armoured Elementary Tactics amongst others. It might be instructive to state that the two Officers who were rated Qualified in their various areas of study graduated with their heads high. The Gambia Armed Forces High Command congratulates and welcomes them home after such an outstanding performance. This training, in addition to many others, underscores the importance the High Command attaches to the capacity building, welfare and development of its personnel in line with the Security Sector Reforms.

Sergeant Yaya Sanyang Excells At Staff College In Nigeria

Staff Sergeant Sanyang Yaya of the Gambia Armed Forces (GAF) recently returned home from a Drill and Duty course held at Drill and Duties Wing of the Armed Forces Command and Staff College in Nigeria. Staff Sanyang was the first GAF senior Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) to attend such training at the prestigious military training institution located in Jaji, Kaduna State. The month-long intensive course exposed participants to various aspects of Drill and Duty and other maneuvers that are performed by military personnel on a daily basis. They were taught on Foot Drill, Sword Drill, Cane Drill, Colour Drill, Pace sticking Drill, Rifle Drill, Regimentation and a host of others. It is gratifying to state that the senior NCO, who is an instructor at the GAF Training School excelled in all these subjects in addition to an exercise dubbed exercise “Sanyang” which was named after him. He graduated as a qualified Drill and Duty Instructor.

Drill and Duties is a key module in the military as it instills discipline, regimentation and psychologically develops a sense of teamwork and self-control in the soldier while enhancing performance under stressful conditions. The Gambia Armed Forces (GAF) Command felicitates Staff Sergeant Sanyang Yaya on this milestone achievement and heartily welcomes him home. Kudus Staff Sergeant Sanyang Yaya!!!

Former Guinean Head of State Sentenced To 20 Years In Prison

Guinea's former military ruler Moussa "Dadis" Camara fled into exile after he survived an assassination attempt several months after the 2009 massacre. / Photo: AA A Guinea court on Wednesday sentenced former junta leader Moussa "Dadis" Camara to 20 years in prison after finding him guilty of crimes against humanity in the 2009 stadium massacre by the military that killed at least 157 people and left dozens of women raped. Guinea's Criminal Court convicted Camara and seven other high-ranking officials on Wednesday after a prolonged trial on charges of murder, kidnapping and rape that were reclassified as "crimes against humanity". Four other accused were acquitted. More than 100 survivors and victims' relatives testified in the trial that started in November 2022, more than a decade after the massacre and under pressure from families and activists demanding justice. 'Uncontrolled' elements

The demonstrators at the stadium in September 2009 were protesting Camara's plans to run for president when soldiers opened fire on them and raped dozens of women. The then-military leader had staged a coup the previous year. The junta at the time said "uncontrolled" elements of the army carried out the rapes and killings. But Camara's top aides were at the stadium and did nothing to stop the massacre, a Human Rights Watch report said. Many of those killed at the stadium protest were shot, crushed or knifed to death while some of the women were dragged out from hiding and gang-raped by uniformed men over several days, witnesses said. Many could not flee the gunfire after Camara's presidential guard surrounded the stadium and blocked the exits, survivors said. 'Asleep' It took several days before the families of the victims were allowed to come and collect the bodies, they said during the trial. Many, though, never found the bodies of their relatives. Camara fled into exile after he survived an assassination attempt several months after the massacre but returned to Guinea more than a decade later. "If I'm here before you it's because of my patriotism, otherwise I would not have agreed to come," he said on his first day in court to face trial in 2022, adding that he was asleep as the massacre unfolded. While in jail late last year, Camara was released by gunmen who stormed the country's main prison but was back in custody hours later as his lawyer said he had been kidnapped. TRT AFRiKA

No Case submission in alleged PIU Shooting

The Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), yesterday informed the court presided over by Justice E. Jaiteh that the State intended to call another witness but decided to close its case in a trial against Ousainou Bojang and co. A.M. Yusuf said PW14 should have been called but unfortunately, he was indisposed. The court, however, ruled for the closure of the prosecution’s case in that regard. Defence Counsel Lamin J. Darboe meanwhile informed the court that they would be filing a no-case submission and requested for a month period to apply. However, Lawyer Lamin Mboge for the second accused, Amie Bojang, associated himself with the submission of Lawyer L.J. Darboe to file a no-case submission. Mboge further informed the court that the second accused was a nursing mother, recalling that the defence had filed a motion for a bail application on her behalf one year ago during the last vacation.He asked the court to consider for him to move the application. DPP A.M. Yusuf objected to the application, saying that it was their submission that the bail application had been overtaken by events and the prosecution had already closed their case. The DPP added that the second accused has indicated her intention to file a no-case submission and urged the court to demise the application for her bail. Lawyer L. Mboge described A.M. Yusuf’s argument as lack of base in law, adding that the bail could be requested anytime in the trial, citing Section 99 of the Criminal Procedure Code. Lawyer Mboge said the liberty of the accused was paramount and the court had to consider that. He also informed the court that the 2nd accused, Amie Bojang has 7 children, and the youngest was one year and six months old. The presiding judge then gave 30 days for both defence counsels to file their no-case submission and 30 days for DPP A.M. Yusuf, to reply. The case was adjourned until 2 October 2024

Dead Body Found In A Bag In Basse

A corpse of a woman was found wrapped in a bag in Basse on Tuesday, 30th July 2024. The police have arrested a suspect in connection with the incident. Sources said after the body was seen wrapped in the bag by people going to work, the police were contacted and they came to the crime scene. The police then evacuated the body to Basse hospital. “She was known as Isatou, but I do not know her surname and she used to stay at ‘Kerr Mike Bar’,” a source told foroyaa. The body was transferred to Banjul for postmortem. Foroyaa contacted the police public relation officer Assistant Superintendent Modou Musa Sisawo. He confirmed the incident and the arrest of the suspect. “The police in Basse got report in the early hours of Tuesday, 30 July 2024. Following the discovery of a body lying in the streets of Basse, the police responded promptly and transported the body to Basse District Hospital for an initial medical examination. Meanwhile, the police have arrested a suspect in connection with the alleged murder. An investigation into the circumstances has begun, and a suspect has already been taken into custody,” PRO Sisawo confirmed. Police PRO assured that the public will be kept informed about the progress of the investigation.

Defence Lawyer Referred for Disciplinary Action

Justice Sidi K. Jobarteh of the Banjul High Court has asked the General Legal Council to take disciplinary action tagainst Lawyer Sagarr C.T Twum for going against her orders in open court. The Judge passed an order, but the Lawyer also stood her ground in what could be best regarded as a protest. Senior Counsel Twum requested something, which was refused by the court. She sat down and refused to continue with the case. Senior Lawyer Sagarr Twum, who was previously known as Sagarr C.T. Jahata is representing Kumba Sinyan. Kumba is standing trial on a single count of murder for allegedly killing her boyfriend at the Friendship Hostel by cutting his stomach using a razor blade. She denied the charge. She is giving marathon evidence in defence for some days now. On Tuesday, when the case was called, Lawyer Sagarr C.T Twum applied for Kumba’s phone that was already tendered in court to be given to her to continue with her testimony. This was granted by the court as there was no objection by the prosecution.

Kumba mentioned a particular taxi driver she called after the incident in an attempt to get a transport. Kumba mentioned the name and called out the phone number. The driver was one Babucarrr Mbye. The presiding judge, Justice Sidi K. Jobarteh requested the phone and pointed out that the name in the phone was stored differently from the name Kumba mentioned. Kumba Sinyan said she stored it as a Babucarr Taxi, referring to Babucarr Mbye. Lawyer Sagarr C.T Twum further asked the accused (Kumba Sinyan) if she mentioned one Ramou Sarr. State counsel M. Sanyang objected that the accused did not mention any Ramou Sarr in her previous testimony Counsel Twum stated that the accused mentioned Ramou Sarr in her testimony when she was talking about Demba Bah, a receptionist. She added that Demba Bah also talked about Ramou Sarr in his testimony when he previously appeared in court. After going through the records Justice Jobarteh highlighted that Ramou was mentioned by Kumba. Kumba provided Ramou’s Qcell and Africell numbers. The name was stored as Ramsim Kobbo. Kumba said she wants to call Ramou, Awa Faal and Mainuna Njie as witnesses in her case. The Judge intervened that the contact numbers of the mentioned people should be provided for the court’s record. Lawyer Sagarr submitted that the numbers can’t be given in an open court in the presence of people. She indicated that this is why she made a statement for the benefit of her client: “When I came this morning, I approached the court and the prosecution for the numbers and names to be given in private, but it was not accepted. So, that is why we have to do it this way.” Lawyer Sagarr later asked Kumba to provide the names and numbers of the people she would like to call as her witnesses. Kumba Sinyan indicated that she would like to call Ramou Sarr, Awa Faal, and Maimuna Njie. Justice Jobarteh requested for the number of Awa Faal, but defence Lawyer Sagarr stated that they already have the details of Awa Faal. The Judge stated the court does not have the number. The Judge held that since the question is for the accused to provide the names and number in an open court, the answer should be given in open court. She added that the number should be stated in open court or the question should be withdrawn by the defence counsel, Sagarr Twum. Lawyer Sagarr C.T Twum contended that the number cannot be called as it is in open court. She stated those are private details that cannot be called in court for everyone to hear. She sought adjournment so that she could go back and advise herself on the way forward in the case. She claimed that Kumba’s right was at stake and being violated. State counsel M. Sanyang objected to the application of the defence for an adjournment. She argued that the defence had the whole time to prepare for their defence. She submitted that the defence opened their defence on the 26th of June, which was a month ago.

Counsel M. Sanyang further submitted that the iPhone of Kumba was given to the defence 3 times after claiming that they needed the phone as evidence in their case. She stated that the defence Lawyer had time to go through the phone and prepare for their case. She added that the phone was tendered in evidence by the defence with no objections. She sighted that the defence approach as a tactic to delay the progress of the case. She urged the court to reject the application to adjourn the case. The presiding Judge, Justice Sidi K. Jobarteh, rejected the application for an adjournment and ordered the question to be answered or withdrawn. Lawyer Sagarr C.T Twum, in reply, said she would not proceed and also advised Kumba not to answer any of the questions since she has a right to remain silent. The court stood down the matter for ten minutes. On resumption, the Judge said she had overruled the application of the defence for an adjournment and ordered for the question to be answered. However, defence Lawyer Sagarr C.T Twum, in an open court, declined to proceed and maintained her position that she needed the adjournment. Justice Sidi K. Jobarteh said she found that action to be disrespectful. The Judge wanted to close the defence case, but she further advised herself that the accused does not need to suffer for her council’s actions. She indicated that she will refer the case to the General Legal Council for disciplinary actions to be taken. The case was adjourned to Thursday, 24 October 2024 for continuation.

Sami Communities To Work with Jah Oil To Improve Rice Production and productivity

The communities of various villages in Sami District Central River Region CRR North has expressed firmed commitment to work closely with the Chief Executive Officer Mr. Hamidou Jah at the Bayaba Rice Field to improve rice production and productivity in the Gambia. Speaking on behalf of Sami communities, the village Alkali Bayaba Bayaba Mr. Dura Bah first and fore=most commend the CEO Jah oil company Mr. Hamidou Jah for bring this massive development to their doorstep. He said more importantly the Gambian leader President Adama Barrow for creating the conducive environment for the private sector to invest their resources in rural Gambia. He disclosed that since the intervention of Hamidou Jah to develop the Bayaba Rice field his communities have been benefiting a lot of opportunity to support their family . He added that since then Jah has been creating employment opportunities for not the people of Bayaba Village but other part of Sami district. Therefore, we are grateful to welcome CEO Jah oil company to Bayaba village. He cited that Jah CEO has been giving support to the community of Bayaba since in 2016 with Borehole.

He also explained that over the Years Sami Karantaba was totally forgotten by Government to provide so many facilities for the people of the district, but today under the leadership of president Adama Barrow and CEO Jah oil company, I can proudly say that People of Sami district ae blessed to have access to proper road . clean drinking water , rice field and plans are underway to have a standard health care center among others. We acknowledged and appreciate CEO Jah oil company for his foresight to invest heavily in changing the livelihood of the people of Sami through rice production. He said the objective is to ensure enough rice production is realize and to Cutdown the impartation of rice into the Gambia. Also speaking Lady councilor for Njalal Ward Madam Kumba Camara said today was her first visit to Bayaba Rice field cleared by CEO Jah oil company, she described as visit as a amazing for the fact that it was very impressive to see such a rapid massive transformative development made by Hamidou Jah. She said doing for his such heavy investment in rice production will greatly help the women of the district. She appreciates Hamidou Jah timely intervention in rice production in Sami Karantaba.

She added that the decision of CEO Jah oil company to go back to the land in rice field production in Sami Karantaba was a very welcome development for the people of Sami District. This is what is expected from a patriotic Gambians to invest heavily into this country in a bid to address the welfare of the women. She also commended the CEO and the entire Jah oil company staff for the love that they have for this country. She added that this rice field will go a long way in addressing the plight of the rural farmers. We have no doubt that this rice field will create a lot of youth’s employment in the region. We must commend and appreciate this development initiatives gear toward improving the livelihood of the people of Sami district. We must work and give CEO all the support he needs to operate effectively and efficiently to improve rice production in Sami District. She seized the opportunity to called on the women and youths to show more commitment to work with the CEO Jah Oil company in Bayaba Rice field. We need more of Hamidou jah in this country who have a great vision to improve the livelihood of the less privilege in this country. We called on the government under the leadership of president Adama Barrow to give the CEO Hamidou Jah all the support to realized his dream in Rice production.

Njalal community commits to Work with Jah Agricultural Project The Community of Njalal Village in Sami district Central River Region has promised strongly to work hand in glove with Jah Agricultural farm in Bayaba . Mr. Saidou Ghano the Alkali of Njalal made this remarked recently in an exclusive interview with this reporter at Jah Agricultural rice field in Bayaba . He went on to described Jah Agricultural project as vital to the people of Not only Bayaba but to the entire people of Sami district. He said considering the number of youths working in this project to earn a better living , show that the community of Bayaba and it catchment area should put all hands on deck to ensure the success of this project in Bayaba. He seized the opportunity to commend the CEO Jah oil company Mr. Hamidou Jah for his ambitious and foresight in bringing this vital project to their doorstep. He cited that the people of Sami have been yenning for over decades but to no avail. Therefore, we expressed appreciation to the government of the day under the leadership of president Adama Barrow for creating the conducive environment for the private sector like Hamidou Jah to invest heavily in Sami district. He stated that all this development is gear toward uplifting the welfare of the people of Sami through engaging into cultivation of rice production. We applaud Hamidou Jah for taking up this giant step in Bayaba Rice field now called Jah Rice field project. He added that this is the first of it kind for the people of Bayaba to have access to such a huge Agricultural project . We the villagers of Njalal promised to work with this project to enable Mr. Hamidou Jah realize his dreams in rice production.

GRA, Senegalese Customs 10th Bilateral Meetings Kicks Off

The 10th Bilateral Meeting between The Gambia Revenue Authority and Senegalese Customs Administration commenced with a warm exchange of greetings between the Director Generals of the two organizations. Distinguished representatives from various Ministries and Agencies of both The Gambia and Senegal were present, including officials from the Ministries of Finance and Trade, Port Authority, Transport Union, Chambers of Commerce, the Gambia High Commission in Dakar, and the Senegalo-Gambia Secretariat. Dr. Mbaye Njie, the Director General of Senegalese Customs, extended a warm welcome to the Gambian delegates, highlighting the long-standing friendship between the two nations. He reiterated his commitment to upholding the bilateral agreements between the two countries.

In his address, Commissioner General Yankuba Darboe emphasized the need for both administrations to intensify their efforts in combating illicit trade and smuggling. He stressed the importance of maintaining vigilance along porous borders through regular patrols, in addition to adhering to approved trade routes. CG Darboe encouraged officials to actively participate in bilateral discussions, sharing their experiences and challenges to generate actionable recommendations. He assured full support for the implementation of any recommendations arising from the meeting.

Furthermore, CG Darboe highlighted how the implementation of SIGMAT could enhance cross-border trade management, strengthening the Senegambian cooperation in trade and facilitating the free movement of goods and people while bolstering national security. The two Director Generals concluded the opening session by expressing gratitude to the governments of The Gambia and Senegal, as well as to all participants for their contributions and commitment to enhancing the bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

Murder Suspect Stabbed Himself Because He Thought His Victim Have Died

A prosecution witness on Tuesday told a High Court in Banjul that Arona Tine, who is charged with the murder of a staff of a Bureau de Change, confessed to him that he stabbed himself because he thought the victim was dead. Arona Tine, a Senegalese national is charged with the murder of one Fatoumata Kargbo, a staff of Hm Bureau Exchange de Change in Westfied. Counsel Drammeh continued to lead Landing Jallow (PW 6), a CID officer from Serekunda West station, in his evidence in chief. Questioned by Counsel Drammeh about the interaction with the accused after recovering the dress from the crime scene, Officer Jallow testified that he was informed that the accused was being admitted to the Ndemban Clinic. He said he proceeded to the clinic. Upon arrival, he met some PIU officers at the clinic and introduced himself as an officer from Serekunda West station that was at the clinic to see the accused person. He added he was allowed to enter the clinic and he found the accused lying down. He said upon introducing himself as Officer Jallow from Serekunda West station and he was there to have information about him (the defendant), he said the defendant identified himself as Arona Tine from Wulinkama and said he is a Senegalese and an electrician. He said he engaged in a conversation with the accused about what happened, but before the accused (Tine) answered his question, he (the accused) asked him about the deceased and whether she was alive. He said based on the situation he found the accused, he didn’t tell him that the deceased was dead.

He testified that when he asked the accused (Tine) why he stabbed himself. The accused expressed concerns about the deceased and revealed stabbing himself, because he thought the deceased was dead. He added that the accused told him that he left his bag with money at the Bureau de Change. He said the accused told him that his bag was containing 110,000 and wanted to transfer 100,000 CFA to Senegal. Officer Jallow said he suspended the questioning because of the condition he found the accused, but informed him that the bag was in his possession, adding he told him that the amount he was talking about was not in the bag. CID Jallow further testified that his interaction with the accused resumed when he was discharged from hospital, adding he and the accused later interacted at the Serekunda West Station with Divisional Crime Officer D.C.O Sonko , and an independent witness Ebrima Janneh (a JP officer) present. He said they communicated in Wollof language. Officer Jallow testified obtaining a statement from the accused, but said he first introduced himself as Detective Sergeant Landing Jallow. He added he told the accused he was going to record his statement about what happened. He said he read the cautionary wording to him and interpreted it in the Wollof. He added he obtained a cautionary statement from the accused, where the accused narrated the events. The statement was then read back to the accused for confirmation and he thumb printed. Counsel F. Drammeh asked the witness whether he would recognize the statement if shown to him, and he replied positively that he would recognize it through his handwriting, phone number and signature. Counsel F. Drammeh handed over the statement to the witness for identification and the witness confirmed the statement as the one he obtained from the accused. Defense Lawyer O. Susso objected to the prosecution’s application to tender the statements of the defendant, citing concerns about the voluntariness of the statements due to alleged threats and intimidation meted out to his client. Lawyer O. Susso contended that the information gathered from the accused is that he was threatened and intimidated by Landing Jallow (PW6) and his colleagues to make the statements without an independent witness. Lawyer O. Susso sought a voir dire (mini-trial) to establish the statement’s voluntariness, which was granted by Justice Jaiteh. In the voir dire the witness CID Landing Jallow took an oath to speak the truth. In his testimony, he introduced himself as Sergeant Landing Jallow, a resident of Latrikunda Sabiji, and said he has been a police officer for 13 years. In his testimony, he stated that he recognized the accused person and recalled that after the accused was discharged, he was detained at the Serekunda West station. He said after the accused was removed from the cell he was incarcerated, he informed him of his intention to obtain his statement. Jallow testified that his interaction with the accused took place around midday, with the presence of his DCO Sonko, Chief Inspector Elizabeth Silver, CIP Marenah, Corporal Faye, and an independent witness (Ebrima Janneh). Jallow further testified that he introduced himself to the accused, read cautionary wording to him, and interpreted it in the Wollof language. When asked if he had said anything beyond the cautionary wording to prompt the accused to give the recorded statement, Jallow replied that he simply discussed the events that occurred. Regarding the room and seating arrangement during the statement procedure, Jallow described it as being in the CID officer’s minimum-size room, equipped with four tables. He sat at the far right corner facing the accused, with Elizabeth Silver seated next to him while the statement was obtained. Jallow expressed confidence in recognizing the statement if shown to him, based on his handwriting, number, and signature. Counsel F. Drammeh then presented the statements to the witness for identification, which the witness confirmed as the statements obtained from the accused. The case was adjourned to the 7th of October for the cross-examination by Lawyer O. Susso in the voir dire

Appointment of 5 ATI commissioners Confirmed

Lawmakers yesterday confirmed and approved the appointment of five commissioners for the Access To Information (ATI) along with a proposed package remuneration. The motion was presented by Dr. Ismaila Ceesay, the minister of Information, on July 8th. The Assembly then referred the report to the Standing Committee on Public Appointments for thorough scrutiny. The report, after the scrutiny, was presented by Hon. Allagie Mbow – a committee member. Following Hon. Mbow’s presentation, the members debated on the proposed remuneration whether to restrict the commissioners from working for other institutions or not. Hon. Mbow highlighted that the committee recommends that the Ministry of Finance and the Personnel Management Office (PMO) come up with a guide or policy document for determining the remuneration of Commissioners across all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDA). “The Committee observes and recommends that the Minister for Information looks into Section 46 of the Access to Information Act 2021 - limitation on outside work – which states that a commissioner shall not hold any other job, occupy or engage in any trade or profession for financial gain.” The committee believes this section limits potential commissioners from serving on the Commission and could restrict competent people from outside work. Hon. Mbow emphasised that the commissioners are full-time employees with restrictions on engaging in outside work. Therefore, there is a need for a revised base salary adjustment to reflect the commissioners' expertise and responsibilities. “Additionally, performance-based incentives should be implemented to promote transparency and regulatory compliance, and benefits and allowances should be provided to support the commissioners in carrying out their duties,” he added. However, Deputy Speaker Seedy Njie raised concern over the issue of Section 46 of the ATI, limiting the commissioners. According to him, these commissioners, if Section 46 is amended as implied by other members, it would encourage a conflict of interest. “The commissioners are prohibited from paid work and should focus on their duties, striving to recruit highly qualified individuals. It is crucial to support the Commission in performing diligently and following the law, as this will benefit all stakeholders,” Hon. Njie argued. He requested the committee chair to review Section 46, pointing out that some commissioners are involved with media houses. Hon. Lamin Cessay argued that it would not be fair to limit the commissioners from working elsewhere. The commissioners are: Nene Macdouall-Gaye - Chairperson John Charles Nje - Vice Chairperson Baboucarr Cham - Member Bai Emile Touray - Member Ya Amie Touray – Member

Dioululung Resident Testifies In PIolice Shooting

The trial involving Ousainou Bojang and her sister continues in the high court of the Gambia. It could be recall that the duo are dacing trial after being accused of shooting and killing two police officers and wounding another and adding and aberting. Alfusainey Dari, a resident of ‘Diolulung’ in the Cassamance, Southern Senegal, who also works as a driver and garage chief testified in the police shooting case involving Ousainou Bojang. He revealed that he knew Mama Jabbi and his encounter with Ousainou Bojang (the accused person) in September 2023. Ousainou Bojang, a resident of Brufut, is facing charges of murder, attempted murder, committing a terrorist act and assault causing grievous bodily harm. His sister, Amie Bojang, is charged with accessory after the fact to murder. Alfusainey Dari recounted that Ousainou Bojang visited their garage in Diolulung and requested a seven-seater vehicle to go to Ziguinchor. However, they did not have a seven-seater available at the time, so he contacted someone named Jana and enquired about the fare, who quoted a fare of 2,500 CFA. Ousainou gave him 5,000 CFA for the fare, which was only 2,500 CFA. He further testified while Ousainou was sitting waiting he noticed Ousainou crying, and he (Mr. Dari) inquired about the reason, to which Ousainou informed him of having an issue with his white lady. Ousainou also expressed a desire to see a fortune teller. He then suggested to him to visit Mama Jabbi, a Gambian lady residing in Diolulung and a fortune teller. The witness said he arranged a motorcycle to take Ousainou to Mama Jabbi’s residence.

He stated that upon reaching Mama Jabbi's place, the host (compound owner) who is also hosting Mama Jabbi called him that Ousainou was crying and talking about killing someone. He (Dari) went to check on Ousainou and asked him what happened he (Ousainou) confessed that two people died at his hands and he told Ousainou his unwilling to bear that burden. He (Dari) was advised to report the matter to the military. Initially hesitant due to fear of mistreatment by the military, but eventually went to the head of the Senegalese Gendermarine to report and he was asked to return to the place to continue chatting with Ousainou Bojang. He testified that when he got back Ousainou was only saying killing. He added that he later returned to the Gendarmerie and this time they came together to arrest Ousainou. When questioned by the Director of Public Prosecutions to confirm his assertion that Ousainou told him two people had died at his hands. The witness reiterated that he met Ousainou on a Wednesday and Ousainou told him that he had killed two people the past day, Tuesday. The witness said Ousainou was talking about “killing” and it was the reason why he returned to the Gendarmerie to come for him. In response to queries regarding the caller from Mama Jabbi's residence, Mr Dari informed the court that it was Yaye Faal who was the landlady. He also stated that his occupation is a garage chief in Jujulung, Cassamance and the incident happened in September 2023 but he cannot remember the exact date. Under Cross-Examination by Senior Counsel Lamin J. Darboe, the witness said he reported the matter to Ababacarr Sarr, the head of the Gendarmerie. “When Ousainou met you at the Car Park in Diouloulou, was he crying?” Counsel Lamin J. Darboe asked. “After he gave me the money, he started crying,” the witness said. The witness was asked whether he made a statement to the police. He said the police asked him and he was responding to them. When asked whether he would be able to recognise the statement, he requested that it should be read to him and he would be able to tell whether it was what he told the police. “Is it correct that you gave your telephone number to the Gambia Police?” Counsel Lamin J. Darboe asked. “I did not give my number to anyone,” the witness said. The witness said when he sees his mobile number he will be able to recognise it. Counsel Lamin J. Darboe requested the police statement of the witness from the Giboro Police Station. It was provided by the prosecution. The witness said he signed and thumbprint the statement. “Is this your telephone?” Counsel Darboe asked. “Yes, this is my telephone number but I did not give it to them (the police),” the witness said. The witness identified the signature on the statement as his. The statement was admitted in evidence and marked as exhibit D15. Lawyer Darboe told the witness that he was not truthful in his testimony that Ousainou Bojang cried. The witness insisted that he swore to the Quran and he came from Casamance; and that he only narrated what he saw and heard. “I am putting it to you that you are not speaking the truth to the court. You told the court that Ousainou said he had a problem with his white lady,” Counsel Lamin J. Darboe said. “Yes, that was what he told me at the car park. When he got to the marabout, he said two people died in his hands yesterday,” the witness said. “You also said Ousainou looked worried that was the time you asked him what happened,” Lawyer Darboe said. “I did not say that, say what someone said,” the witness responded. The witness said he did not see Mama Jabbi and Yaye Faal (the landlady) recording the conversation with Ousainou. He added that the Gendarmerie did not record his statement “In fact, you said when Ousainou arrived at Mama Jabbi's place, Mama was the one who called you and asked you to call the Gendarmerie. Is that not the case?” Counsel Lamin J. Darboe asked. “No, it was Yaye Faal, who called me. In fact, both of them,” the witness said. “Mama asked you to call the Gendarmerie,” Counsel Lamin J. Darboe said. “I did not call the Gendarmerie. I took a motorcycle and went there,” the witness replied. “It was Mama who advised you to go and call the Gendermarine,” Counsel Lamin J. Darboe said. “Mama cannot ask me to do that. I don't do it. Because I don't know her, I know the Landlady,” the witness replied. “I am putting it to you that you know Mama Jabbi very well because you are the one who directed Ousainou Bojang to go to Mama because she is a marabout,” Counsel Lamin J. Darboe said. “I don't know Mama today and I don't know her tomorrow. I know the Landlady,” the witness said. Senior Counsel Lamin J. Darboe read a portion of the statement of the witness. He stated that he knew Mama Jabbie. The witness claimed that it was not what he told the police. He mentioned that it could be the Defence Counsel who wrote the statement. “You said Mama didn't tell you, but in your statement, you said Mama was the one who told you to notify the Gendarmerie,” Counsel Lamin J. Darboe told the witness. “It was the landlady who said I should go to the military but I told her that I am going to Gendarmerie,” the witness said. “I am also putting it to you that Ousainou did not give you 5,000 CFA,” Counsel Lamin J. Darboe said. “That's what Ousainou gave me,” the witness replied. “All that you said here, other than the fact Ousainou came to Diouloulou, is a fabrication,” Counsel Lamin J. Darboe told the witness. The witness insisted that his testimony was true. Counsel Lamin J. Darboe told the witness that Ousainou wanted to fix his relationship with his white lady and needed a fortune teller in that regard. “I only narrated what I heard and saw,” the witness said. “I am putting it to you that you are recruited by Mama Jabbi to come and fabricate here,” Counsel Lamin J. Darboe said. “I only said what I heard and saw,” the witness said. Director of Public Prosecution A.M Yusuf re-examine the witness. “Mr Dari, it is correct that before the day you met Ousainou Bojang, you had never met Mama Jabbi anywhere,” DPP Abdul Maita Yusuf asked. “I heard Mama Jabbi is a marabout in Diouloulou, I do see her but I don't know her. Is her Land Lady that I know,” the witness replied. The case was adjourned to Tuesday, 30 July 2024. Follow Everyone @highlight #courtreporting #factualnews #thenationeye

Courts Orders IGP to Return Aisha Fatty’s Vehicles and Phones

By Kemeseng Sanneh (Kexx) A High Court in The Gambian caital, Banjul, Friday ordered the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to return Aisha Fatty’s two vehicles and two iPhone mobiles. This Judgement stems from a civil suit filed by Fatty against the Inspector General of Police over the seizure of the plaintiffs two vehicles, and two mobile phones and her detention without trial. Barely 9 months after the police impounded the aforesaid items, Fatty chose to file a civil suit against the Attorney General and Inspector General of Police seeking four prayers: An order directing the IGP to handover the two vehicles to the first applicant (Aisha Fatty), an order restraining the IGP to handover the vehicles to any third party (Abdoulaye Thiam), an order declaring that the arrest and detention of the first applicant (Aisha Fatty) is unlawful and any other order deemed by the court. During the delivery of her verdict, Justice Alami Jawara confirmed that the vehicles in question are legally owned by Aisha Fatty as they are registered and cleared under her name. As a result, she directed the IGP to promptly hand over the vehicles and phones to Aisha Fatty. Furthermore, the Judge declared that Aisha Fatty’s detention by the police was without legal basis, hence emphasizing the unlawful nature of her arrest and detention