under the sedition and publication of false news. She was convicted on all counts on
August
18" 2008
and
fined GMD
Gambian Dalasi) payable
250, 000 (Iwo
hundred
and fifty thousand
within two hours, in default of which she will serve a
four year Prison term.
The 3" Plantiff was able to pay the fine as a result of substantial contributions from
The Gambia Press Union, family and supporters. She subsequently fled The Gambia
and is now resident in the United States of America.
On his Part, the 4" Applicant alleges that he was arrested on the 7" of February 2013
on account of his article on the stand taken by one Major Lamin Touray against the
execution of nine condemned
Prisoners. He further alleges that while in custody he
was locked in a completely dark room for three days. He was also beaten with fists
and sticks to the point of unconsciousness, subjected for aggregate burns by NIA
officials. On the orders of a Superior officer, he was taken to a medical facility where
he was treated. On discharge from hospital, he was charged interlia with production
and possession of publications with seditious intention under S.52 of the Criminal
Code. He was refused bail and held in custody for seventeen (17) months until the
end of the trial in which he was acquitted. Following an information that the State
appealed
the acquittal
and
for reasonably
fear of further persecution,
Applicant fled to Dakar Senegal where he lives till date.
the 4"