By: Cecilia E.L Mendy
Proceedings in the trial of former Lands Minister Abba Sanyang and six others were on Monday adjourned at the Banjul High Court after the prosecution sought time to obtain further instructions, despite all parties being present and ready to proceed.
The case, which relates to the alleged forfeiture of lands linked to former President Yahya Jammeh, came before Justice Ebrima Jaiteh with Buba Sanyang, a key prosecution witness and former Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Lands, present to continue his testimony.
At the start of the hearing, State Counsel S.L. Jorbateh informed the court that he had received communication from his office indicating the need for additional guidance on the matter.
He said the development meant he could not proceed and therefore applied for an adjournment.
Justice Jaiteh questioned the application, pointing out that the court was ready to proceed, with the witness, defence counsel and accused persons all in attendance. He asked why the testimony of the first prosecution witness could not continue.
In response, Counsel Jorbateh explained that there might be changes in the prosecution’s approach to the case, making it necessary for him to first receive clear instructions from his superiors before moving forward.
He conceded that the request might not be convenient for the court but appealed for its indulgence to allow the prosecution time to properly organise its case.
The court then invited submissions from the defence. Counsel K. Sanyang, representing the first accused, and Counsel J. Jeng, representing the second to seventh accused persons, both informed the court that they had no objection to the application.
Justice Jaiteh subsequently granted the request and adjourned the case to 12th May 2026.
