By: Alieu Jallow

Following the just-concluded testimonies by both the state witnesses and the two accused persons (Ousainou Bojang and Amie Bojang), as the court addressed by both counsels, Ousainou and his defense team’s submissions couldn’t stand the test of time in convincing Presiding Judge Justice Ebrimsa Jaiteh to rule in their favor following allegations of the first accused being beaten and drugged to obtain voluntary and cautionary statements from him by the police anti-crime unit. In his address, Justice Jaiteh said the ruling was predicated upon an objection raised by Counsel Lamin J. Darboe, counsel for the 1st Accused person, on the admissibility of the cautionary and voluntary statements allegedly made by the 1st Accused Person. The 1st Accused testified that he was given coffee and he drank it and went into sleep.

“The 1st Accused did not state how the coffee affected his health other than putting him to sleep and did not raise any complaint to the police or any other person of any ill-health as a result of the coffee he drank. He also did not produce or subject himself to any toxicology test to suggest that he was drugged. The 1st Accused testified that he was beaten to confess, but he refused to confess by the officers who beat him, and I wonder why did he then thumbprint blank/empty papers without knowing the content of the said papers? By the 1st Accused thumbprinting, he thus authenticates the content of the papers. At this juncture, the testimony of the 1st Accused person raises more questions on his credibility as to the involuntariness of the cautionary and voluntary statements,” Justice highlighted.

Justice Jaiteh went on to emphasize that in his view, a reasonable person who was mercilessly beaten to confess but refused to do so would not merely thumbprint blank papers without knowing the content that would be written on it, noting how that defeats logic and reason to believe the testimony of the 1st Accused person in this situation.

“I am not convinced and persuaded by his testimony as to the involuntariness of the extra-judicial statements. Under the circumstances, I am satisfied that Exhibit VD2 to VD14, the cautionary statement and voluntary statements, are in compliance with section 31(2) of the Evidence Act and thus substantially complied with the Judges’ Rules and therefore admissible in evidence as exhibits, and this I shall hold as a fact. There was no evidence led on the witness statement of Ebou Sowe, and therefore the same shall be admitted into evidence as an exhibit,” he outlined.

The presiding judge further outlined that having perused the record of proceedings, the 1st Accused did not accept charges as stated on prosecution Exhibits P2, P3, P4, and P5(a),(b)&(c); however, he accepted the charges on Exhibits VD3 to VD14, thus confirming that the 1st Accused accepted some charges but denied others charges.

“It follows, therefore, that the testimony of the independent witness is credible, and I believe him. I do not believe that the independent witness receiving and making calls during the recording of the extra-judicial statement violates the law or the Judges’ Rules and cannot vitiate said statements. In view of the fact that the recording of Exhibits VD3 to VD14 is in full compliance with the Evidence Act and the Judges’ Rules, the said statements are admissible. I am also mindful that the 1st accused denied the charges and subsequently accepted the said charges will be considered in light of the totality of the evidence adduced at the end of this trial. The fact that the police have adhered to these Rules in their investigation of a crime would guide this court in determining the weight to be attached to any confessional statement made by the 1st Accused person. The extra-judicial statements were read over to the 1st Accused and confirmed in the presence of an independent witness is sufficient to render the said statements admissible. It would be in the interest of justice to admit these extra-judicial statements as they are relevant in this trial, and the weight to be attached shall be determined at the end of the trial.”

In his conclusion, Justice Jaiteh noted from the foregoing reasons and in the interest of justice and fairness, he admitted the following statements into evidence as exhibits and marked them as follows:

1. Exhibit VD2 as Exhibit P6 – cautionary statement of the 1st Accused person dated the 15th September 2023;
2. Exhibit VD3 as Exhibit P7 – voluntary statement of the 1st Accused on the charge of Assault Causing Grievous Bodily harm dated the 15th September 2023;
3. Exhibit VD4 as Exhibit P8 – Voluntary statement on Grievous Bodily Harm dated the 15th Sept. 2023;
4. Exhibit VD5 as Exhibit P9 – Voluntary statement on Grievous Bodily Harm dated the 15th Sept;
5. Exhibit VD6 as Exhibit P10 – Voluntary statement on Attempt to murder dated the 15th Sept. 2023
6. Exhibit VD7 as Exhibit P11– Voluntary statement on Attempt to murder dated 15th Sept. 2023
7. Exhibit VD8 as Exhibit P12– Voluntary statement on Attempt to murder dated the 15th September 2023;
8. Exhibit VD9 as Exhibit P13 – Voluntary statement on the charge of murder dated the 15th September 2023;
9. Exhibit VD10 as Exhibit P14 – Voluntary statement on the charge of murder dated the 15th September 2023;
10. Exhibit VD11 as Exhibit P15– Voluntary statement on the charge of murder dated the 15th September 2023;
11. Exhibit VD12 as Exhibit P16 – Voluntary statement on the charge of prohibition of acts of terrorism dated the 15th September 2023;
12. Exhibit VD13 as Exhibit P17 – Voluntary statement on the charge of prohibition of acts of terrorism dated the 15th September 2023;
13. Exhibit VD14 as Exhibit P18 – Voluntary statement on the charge of prohibition of acts of terrorism dated the 15th September 2023;
14. Exhibit VD15 as Exhibit P19 – The witness statement of Ebou Sowe dated the 10th November 2023.
15. Exhibit VD1 as REJECT 1 – the cautionary statement of Ousainou Bojang dated the 14th September 2023.

“In spite of the fact that these extra-judicial statements are now admitted into evidence, it is incumbent upon this court to determine the weight pursuant to section 96 of the Evidence Act, 1994, to be attached to it before proceeding to act on them,” he concluded.

The case resumes today for a continuation of the main trial.

By: Alieu Jallow

The state prosecution in the murder case of the staff member of the HM Bureau at West Field has yet to file a bill of indictment against Haruna Tine, the alleged killer of Fatoumatta Kargbo at Westfield Forex Bureau. It may be recalled that on Friday, January 12, Haruna Tine, a Senegalese national, was charged with premeditated murder for allegedly stabbing Fatoumatta Kargbo in the chest, resulting in her death.

The case was mentioned at the Kanifing Magistrate Court, and subsequently transferred to the High Court due to the lower court’s lack of jurisdiction to hear such a case. This led to the remand of the accused at Mile II since then.

Today, the accused appeared before Justice Ebrima Jaiteh of the Banjul High Court. However, the state counsel, F. Drammeh, representing the state, informed the court that they have received the file from the Inspector General of Police and a legal opinion has been made. They are set to file the indictment tomorrow, March 12, 2024.

The case is adjourned to Tuesday, March 19, 2024, at 11:30 AM.

By: Adama Sanneh

Following the declaration by the Gambia Supreme Islamic Council on the commencement of Ramadan in the Gambia, the leader of the Gambia Action Party (GAP), Musa Ousainou Yali Batchilly, raised concerns about the artificial increase in the prices of goods in the country. He urged the government to take rigorous action against businesses guilty of such practices.

Batchilly encouraged the virtues of humanity, kindness, and the best practices of Islamic teachings, emphasizing the need for reflection and the avoidance of actions that could harm people during the sacred month.

He firmly believes that traders who hike prices of goods, including food, at the beginning of Ramadan are employing exploitative methods contrary to the spirit of Ramadan. He implored President Adama Barrow to halt businesses from exploiting Gambians by increasing prices without formal government approval, especially during Ramadan.

Furthermore, Batchilly stated that Gambians have expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s inability to address their primary welfare needs. He challenged both the government and the national assembly to find solutions to the concerns of Gambians, particularly during Ramadan.

He suggested that the government engage in dialogue with businesses to discourage arbitrary price increases of commodities without due process during Ramadan and beyond. He also encouraged people to share with the less fortunate, as Ramadan is a month of love, sharing, and blessings.

By: Mr Alhagie Kassama

On Friday, March 8, 2024, SBEC International Arabic High School joined the global community in commemorating International Women’s Day on its grounds, under the theme ‘Cultivating Worth: Recognizing and Elevating Every Woman.’

In her Keynote Address, Madam Ayeesah-Nyang Njie, Director of SBEC International School, expressed her enthusiasm for the day, highlighting its significance in recognizing the invaluable contributions of women. She stated, “It is a day to celebrate our grandmothers, mothers, wives, aunties, sisters, and daughters. This is a day when we are honored and appreciated as child-bearers.” She emphasized the enduring strength of women, who, from birth, are equipped by Allah to endure pain, including menstruation, pregnancy, childbirth, and child-rearing. She underscored the importance of women understanding their own worth and self-respect, urging them not to be swayed by social media trends or external influences that might undermine their identity.

As the special Guest Speaker, Madam Dembell addressed the values and roles of women in Islam, emphasizing the theme’s call for empowering every woman and providing equitable access to education. She emphasized the equality of men and women in Islam, citing Quranic verses and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). She distinguished between religious teachings and cultural traditions, arguing that Islam has historically liberated and empowered women, granting them rights and dignity unmatched by any other religion.

Madam Dembell challenged men to responsibly provide for, protect, and respect women, stressing the importance of mutual consent in marriage and the equitable treatment of women in society. She highlighted the significant contributions of prominent Muslim women throughout history, encouraging the audience to draw inspiration from their examples.

In closing, Madam Dembell urged students, especially boys, to treat girls with honor, respect, and kindness, and to participate in household chores. She commended women for their leadership roles in various sectors and emphasized the importance of dismantling barriers to foster a more inclusive society.

Several students, including Awa Musa Darboe, Zainab Tunkara, Fatima Jorjo Gaye, Aji Kulay Touray, and Fatima Conde, delivered statements on the value and role of women in society, advocating for increased empowerment and inclusion in leadership, education, and health.

Aisata Ceesay, a student and President of the Student Government, concluded the event by applauding the speakers for their insightful discussions on the values of women in Islam. She expressed gratitude for their recognition of women’s contributions throughout history and emphasized the importance of continuing such discussions.

The United Nations has designated the theme for the year 2024 as ‘Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress,’ focusing on addressing economic, cultural, social, and political disempowerment. The campaign theme for this year, ‘Inspire Inclusion,’ underscores the importance of including women to foster belonging, relevance, and empowerment.

International Women’s Day originated from the National Declarations of Women’s Rights in the United States of America, advocating for gender equality and equity. First celebrated on March 19, 1911, in the United States, it has since become a global event, observed annually on March 8, to honor and recognize the achievements and contributions of women worldwide while raising awareness of gender disparities and discrimination.

By: Dawda Baldeh

REFELA President Mayor Lowe joined rural women in celebrating International Women’s Day, making the occasion particularly special for them. This global day dedicated to women is observed annually on March 8th.

Addressing the rural women in Madina Shering Mass, Mayor Lowe emphasized the significance of the day as an opportunity for self-celebration. She expressed her joy in being able to celebrate alongside them in the village and encouraged women to support one another and overcome obstacles.

Mayor Lowe assured them of her commitment to providing support through REFELA and advocated for increased opportunities for women, emphasizing the importance of empowerment in economic, political, and social realms.

She called on the government to assist women facing challenges such as accessing necessities like water, healthcare services, and markets.

The rural women deeply appreciated the mayor’s visit, considering it a rare opportunity.

By: Alieu Jallow

The Managing Director of Gambia Ferries, Abdoulie Tambedou, informed The Fatu Network that delays in finalizing the shipyard facilities are contributing to the recent breakdowns of the Kunta Kinteh ferry.

“The commencement of dry docking is delayed due to the finalization of the shipyard facilities needed to receive the craft.”

Two weeks ago, a major shutdown of ferry services lasting more than 24 hours caused a significant impact on businesses and other services.

In response, ferry management had to devise mechanisms to resume services by repairing what was believed to be a problem with the propellers. The ferries manager also informed The Fatu Network that they have ordered new engines, of which only three have currently arrived in the country, to replace the old ones in these ferries.

Mr. Tambedou further informed the network that the Kunta Kinteh ferry, in particular, was due for dry docking, scraping, and the installation of a new engine; however, this has yet to occur.

To restore services to the demanding population, management held a repair and maintenance session; however, these efforts were unsuccessful as the Kunta Kinteh ferry experienced another breakdown yesterday.

When The Fatu Network reached out to the manager to inquire about what went wrong, this is what he had to say:

“The ferry Kunta Kinteh is being readied for the dry docking, as advertised in the newspapers, to commence on April 6, 2024, for the next six weeks.”

These frequent breakdowns of the ferries raise serious questions about the safety of the ferries plying the Banjul-Barra route. Additionally, the breakdowns also highlight the need for more investment and welcome private investors to help meet the growing demand between the country’s major crossing points.

By: Alieu Jallow

Justice Ebrima Jaiteh of the High Court, presiding over the Sukuta-Jabang traffic police shooting case, has adjourned the much-anticipated ruling of the voir dire or mini-trial to March 11th, 2024. The ruling was scheduled to be delivered on Wednesday, March 6th, following a successful court session.

On Monday, March 4th, 2024, counsels for both the state and defense presented their arguments before the court.

The subject matter of the voir dire arose from allegations made by Counsel Lamin J Darboe that his client was drugged and beaten to obtain a voluntary and cautionary statement from the first accused person (Ousainou Bojang), leading to the suspension of the main trial and the subsequent initiation of a mini-trial.

During the voir dire, the first accused person denied thumbprinting any statement with wordings. He also informed the court that Detective Ebou Sowe gave him a cup of coffee, after which he fell asleep shortly. Additionally, he stated that he was beaten by SI Jobe and Sergeant Musa Bah of the Police Anti-Crime Unit in an attempt to force a confession, but he maintained that he never confessed.

During cross-examination, Detective Ebou Sowe of the Police Anti-Crime Unit informed the court that the first accused person was neither beaten nor drugged.

Detective Sowe also testified that the statement obtained on September 15th was done in the presence of an independent witness, Alieu Cham of Sukuta. When asked about his involvement at the Anti-Crime Unit, Mr. Cham outlined being contacted by a white lady who had bought a car from him some time ago. He mentioned uncertainty about their relationship but stated that he was approached by Detective Sowe to serve as an independent witness, initially declining the offer.

Defense counsel Lamin J Darboe, representing the first accused person, urged the court during the session to rule in favor of the first accused person, citing irregularities and inconsistencies.

In contrast, state prosecutor AM Yusuf disputed the statements of September 15th, 2023, noting that they were obtained voluntarily, beyond what was presented in court. The state prosecution further submitted that the evidence provided by PW1 and PW2 during the voir dire, as well as Exhibit D3 – the police diary, were substantial.

AM Yusuf emphasized that the testimonies of PW1 and PW2 were consistent and free from controversy.

The case was adjourned to March 11th, 2024, for a ruling on the matter and the subsequent commencement of the main trial.

By: Dawda Baldeh

At the Banjul-Barra crossing point, a group of determined young men faces the daily challenge of making ends meet.

In this pictorial, we capture their relentless efforts as they ferry passengers, load boats, and engage in a race to maximize their earnings.

While job opportunities may be scarce, these men approach the struggle with a unique perspective. Get ready for some fascinating insights into their lives.

The Banjul-Barra crossing point, bustling with activity, serves as a lifeline for many travelers.

Here, we see young men eagerly awaiting the arrival of boats, ready to assist passengers and transport their belongings.

Their strength and determination are evident as they prepare for another demanding day.

As a boat approaches, the race begins. The young men spring into action, displaying agility and skill as they swiftly unload passengers.

Each one aims to secure as many clients as possible, knowing that their earnings depend on it. The competition is intense, adding excitement to their daily routine.

A group of young men, their faces beaming with anticipation, manage to unload a boatload of passengers in record time.

They celebrate their success, aware that their efforts directly impact their income.

This camaraderie among competitors demonstrates the unique bond that has formed within this community.

In the midst of their daily struggle, we witness a surprising revelation. These young men, despite facing challenging circumstances, approach their work with resilience and a positive mindset.

They find satisfaction in their ability to provide a vital service, demonstrating their resourcefulness and determination.

Beyond the financial aspect, these young men have also discovered personal growth through their work.

They have honed their interpersonal skills, learned to navigate complex situations, and developed a strong work ethic.

This experience shapes them into resilient individuals who are equipped to face future challenges.

As the day draws to a close, the exhaustion on their faces is evident. Yet, their spirits remain unbroken.

They reflect on the day’s accomplishments, knowing they have contributed to the smooth operation of the Banjul-Barra crossing point.

Through their dedication and perseverance, they have forged a path towards a better future.

The daily struggle of the young men at the Banjul-Barra crossing point is a testament to their unwavering determination and resilience.

By turning a challenging situation into an opportunity for personal growth and financial stability, they inspire us all.

Their unique perspective on the struggle for employment serves as a reminder that, with the right mindset, even the toughest of circumstances can be transformed into a stepping stone towards success.