Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – Proceedings in a high-profile land case linked to former President Yahya Jammeh were on Tuesday adjourned after the prosecution requested additional time to seek further instructions, delaying the start of key witness testimony.
The case, presided over by Justice Ebrima Jaiteh, had been scheduled to proceed with evidence from the first prosecution witness, a former Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Lands who currently serves at the Ministry of Fisheries.
At the outset of the hearing, State Counsel S.L. Jorbateh informed the court that he had been advised by his office to obtain additional guidance that could potentially affect the direction of the case. He said he was therefore unable to proceed and formally applied for an adjournment.
Justice Jaiteh questioned the basis of the request, pointing out that all parties, including the accused persons and their legal representatives, were present and ready to proceed. In response, Counsel Jorbateh explained that possible changes in the prosecution’s strategy made it necessary to first consult his superiors before continuing.
The defense team, led by Counsels K. Sanyang and J. Jeng, did not oppose the application.
Granting the request, Justice Jaiteh adjourned the matter to May 12, when the court is expected to resume with the continuation of the witness’s testimony.
The case centers on nine charges against multiple accused persons, including former Lands Minister Sheriff Abba Sanyang.
He faces allegations of abuse of office and providing false information in connection with the allocation of 40 percent of forfeited land in Kassa Kunda, property previously linked to Jammeh.
Other accused persons are facing charges including criminal trespass and obtaining money by false pretenses. Prosecutors allege that they unlawfully entered the land and sold portions to several companies, claiming it belonged to the Kassa Kunda Village Development Committee.
According to the prosecution, more than D13 million was allegedly obtained through the disputed transactions. All accused persons have denied the charges.
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