**Updates IFEX alert dated 30 March 1995** Three “The Point” journalists, Pap (also reported as Pape) Saine, Badara Sowe and Brima (also reported as Ibrahima) Ernest, who were arrested by police on 30 March 1995, were released on bail the following day. However, the three journalists still face charges for “publishing false information,” in violation […]
**Updates IFEX alert dated 30 March 1995**
Three “The Point” journalists, Pap (also reported as Pape) Saine,
Badara Sowe and Brima (also reported as Ibrahima) Ernest, who
were arrested by police on 30 March 1995, were released on bail
the following day. However, the three journalists still face
charges for “publishing false information,” in violation of
Section 1 of the criminal code, which provides for a two year
prison sentence for anyone who publishes, while having knowledge
or reason to believe it false, a statement which could cause
public fear or alarm. They are also charged under a 1944 colonial
era law, which was never used after its promulgation. The
journalists were charged in connection with an article on a
prison riot at the Banjul central prison at the end of March.
According to RSF, Gambian authorities seem determined to find the
journalists guilty.
According to RSF, regardless of the facts in the case, the
proceedings around the “Point” case have been irregular, and
unjustifiable acts of harassment have been used against “The
Point”. The State printing press, for example, received orders to
stop printing “The Point”.
RSF is especially concerned for Brima Ernest, who is of Sierra-
Leone descent. He is being particularly targeted during these
proceedings. In addition to facing a two year prison term, the
journalist risks deportation to Sierra Leone, where his life may
be in danger due to other (family-related) circumstances.
The trial, set to begin on 22 June, was delayed at the request of
the defense until 3 July.
Recommended Action
Send appeals to Gambian authorities:
suspend the proceedings against the three journalists
of the press are respected, and that they ask for leniency on the
part of the judges
Appeals To
His Excellency Lieutenant General Yaya Jammeh
President
State House
Banjul, The Gambia
Fax: +220 227 034
Please copy appeals to the originator if possible.
