Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) — The 50 million dalasis defamation lawsuit filed by Gambian Minister of Environment, Rohey John Manjang, against investigative journalist Kebba Ansu Manneh of The Alkamba Times (TAT) was adjourned today by the High Court to December 12, as both parties expressed an interest in pursuing an out-of-court settlement.

The courtroom saw a show of solidarity from journalists and activists who attended the hearing in support of Manneh. Positioned quietly at the back of the court, Manneh observed the proceedings while his legal representative presented his defense. Minister Manjang, the plaintiff, was not present but was represented by her attorney, M. Drammeh.

Justice Akinbiyi encouraged both sides to consider alternative dispute resolution (ADR), suggesting the case could be transferred to the Court-Connected ADR, a mediation mechanism intended to facilitate settlements outside traditional court procedures. The judge’s recommendation came after confirming that both parties were open to discussions that might resolve the dispute amicably.

According to sources close to the case, Minister Manjang seeks a public apology and retraction of an article published by TAT on June 19, 2024, which alleged corruption. The report claimed that 150,000 dalasis from the sale of a mahogany tree in Kiang Kaif was paid into an account reportedly linked to the minister. Manjang disputes the allegations as “malicious and unfounded.”

The plaintiff’s demands include a published apology on TAT’s website and related platforms, removal of related social media posts, and a perpetual injunction to prevent any future defamatory statements by Manneh. In addition, she seeks a compensation amount of 50 million dalasis.

The plaintiff’s counsel informed the court that they had received the defendant’s statement of defense and would need time to prepare a response. The court granted the plaintiff additional time, emphasizing that both parties could use the interval to explore potential settlement options before the case resumes on December 12.

The civil lawsuit has sparked public interest as many view it as a test of press freedom and the rights of journalists in The Gambia. For now, all eyes are on whether a settlement can be reached that might avoid a lengthy court battle.