Gambia: Opposition Leader Charged With Organizing “Unlawful Assembly.”

As Court Releases Femi Peters On Bail

United Democratic Party Propaganda Secretary Femi Peters, was released on bail this morning, after he was charged with “ organizing an unlawful assembly,” the Freedom Newspaper can report. Mr. Peters,  who was briefly arraigned in court in the Capital City Banjul, has reunited with his family. He was booked overnight by the Banjul Police Department on allegations of breaching the public peace. Police say the opposition UDP organized a political rally without permit, an action they deemed as illegal. But the UDP leadership says it had complied with the relevant provisions of the law by making an application for permit, which was denied by the police for an unexplained reasons.

At a court hearing Monday, Femi Peters  was asked to take his plea on the charges filed against him by the state, the popular politician refused on the grounds that he cannot take any plea in the absence of his attorney.  Mr. Peters informed the court he should be availed with the opportunity to consult with his lawyer before making his plea. His request was granted without any rancor, even though the prosecution wanted to continually kept him in custody.

A confident looking Femi Peters met the bail bond stipulated for his release. He was asked to report to court  on Wednesday October 28^Th 2009, when he is expected to take his plea.

Contacted on the phone, Peters confirmed his release. He asked the Freedom Newspaper reporter to get in touch with him Tuesday morning for an interview regarding his detention.

“ I have been released. I am back at home-going about my normal life. As I am speaking to you, I am in the streets of Bakau. You can hear the noise. Call me tomorrow (Tuesday) and I will give you my side of the story,” Peters said.

The Jammeh administration in the recent past invited Mr. Peters to the State House, with the view of winning the heart of the controversial politician, but Peters is still adamant on his critical stance against this administration. He refuses to join the APRC party. He openly lambasts Jammeh, and his unpopular APRC party.