Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – High Court Judge Justice Ebrima Jaiteh has approved an application by State Counsel M. Singhateh to conduct the testimony of a 13-year-old child witness in private. This decision comes amid the ongoing trial of Gorgie Sowe, also known as Yugo Sowe, who is facing serious charges, including attempted murder and domestic violence against his wife.

Sowe, who has pleaded not guilty to all five charges—attempted murder, assault causing grievous bodily harm, intentional harm, wounding, and domestic violence—was represented by Lawyer Samuel Ade from the National Agency for Legal Aid (NALA).

During the proceedings, Counsel Singhateh argued for the closed-door session based on Section 3 of the Children’s Act, citing the witness’s familial relationship with the accused as a key factor.

In response, Lawyer Ade raised concerns about the witness’s age, highlighting the absence of a birth certificate to verify it. He contended that the law permits in-camera sessions only for cases involving sexual offenses against children, urging that this case should be heard in open court.

Justice Jaiteh, after reviewing the arguments, ruled that the witness is classified as a child based on police documentation, thereby granting the request for in-camera testimony.

The proceedings then moved to a private chamber where the child provided his testimony away from public view.

The trial continues as the court navigates the complexities of domestic violence law and the protections afforded to child witnesses.