Gambia: Judge Says Accused Journalists “ Have A Case To Answer.”

…As Justice Fagbenele Dismisses Defense’s Application

By Staff Writer Bakary Gibba, Banjul

The High Court in Banjul  Tuesday dismissed a “ no case to answer” submission made by lead counsel Antouman Gaye. High court judge Justice Emmanuel Fagbenele said the accused persons indeed have a case to answer, with the exception of  Abubacarr Saidykhan, who was acquitted, and discharged. This latest developments, compelled the defense to get their clients testify in court. The judge ruled that the case must continue, with Ebrima Sawaneh of the Point Newspaper invited on the dock to give evidence in earnest.

The six journalists have been charged with criminal defamation. Mr. Sawaneh briefly testified in court Tuesday before the case was adjourned to Wednesday for continuation. The journalist denied defaming President Jammeh, and strongly defended the press release that was carried by the Point.

The fifth accused person Abubacarr Saidykhan was set free by the new judge handling the journalists case. He said there was no evidence linking the accused to the pending case, and therefore set him free.