Lawyer Ousainou Darboe of opposition United Democratic Party (UDP) this afternoon appeared with other peaceful protesters in High Court in Banjul.
At least 37 people appeared in court to hear their charges. Nineteen of the Saturday protesters, who included Mr. Darboe, appeared along with 18 Thursday’s protesters led by Ebrima Solo Sandeng.
The Gambia government has neither confirmed, nor denied the death in custody of Thursday’s protesters. However, some protesters, including Solo Sandeng, Fatoumata Jawara, Nokoi Njie, Fatou Camara (UDP Executive Members) and Modou Ngum, were not present in court. Some accused persons are enduring pains of injuries, perhaps from either rough arrest or brutal torture while in detention.
No reasons were given for their absence, raising suspicion that the state is hiding a skeleton in its cupboard.
Solo Sandeng who reported to have been killed by Jammeh has not physically appeared in court. No woman appeared in court.
Both groups were charged with unlawful assembly, inciting, riot, violence, rioteously interfering with traffic, holding procession without license and disobeying an order to disperse from an unlawful procession.
There was a legal wrangling over service of indictment of the accused involving the state prosecutor and lead defence lawyer Antouman.
Mr. Darboe and co are now waiting to take their plea.
We will keep you posted on developments from the court.
Source;www.kaironews.com
Source;www.kaironews.com
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