7 Gambian Journalists Granted Bail

The seven GPU members charged with “conspiracy to publish seditious publication and publishing seditious information” were today, Monday 22 June 2009 granted bail at the sum of D200, 000 each with two Gambian sureties.

The seven journalists arrested since Monday 15 June 2009 and detained at the NIA offices in Banjul were first brought to court last week Thursday 18 June 2009 and charged in the absent of their lawyers and denied bail, and subsequently remanded, except Mrs. Sarata Jabbi-Dibba who was granted bail the same day.

The accused persons declined to take their plea, arguing that they have not spoken to their counsel. Defense lawyer, Lamin Camara who is apparently representing the entire group told the Court that he has not been given chance to meet his clients since their arrest. The case has been adjourned to 7 July.