Counsel representing businessman linked to politician Kebba Madi alleges constitutional violation after 45-minute standoff with police.
Lawyers representing Muhammed Reni, a business associate of politician Kebba Madi, who is currently in detention over allegations of purchasing vehicles and motorbikes for Madi’s political activities, were denied access to their client at the Banjul Anti-Crime Unit.
Counsel L.S. Camara and K. Jallow, who are legal Counsels for Muhammad Reni, were unable to see their client despite presenting themselves at the detention centre and identifying the purpose of their visit to officers at the gate.
Lawyer Camara told Kexx News that upon receiving information that his client was being held at the Banjul Anti-Crime Unit, he proceeded to the unit and informed officers at the gate of his intention to see Reni as the legal counsel. He was asked to wait while the officers contacted a senior officer.
After waiting, he was told he needed clearance from Superintendent Lamin Cham, who is not in. When Superintendent Cham waited for several minutes waiting, he told him he in turn needed to speak with one Pa Alieu Jawara before any access could be granted.
By the time Lawyer Camara spoke to KexxNews, he had still not been permitted to see his client.
“I have waited for more than 45 minutes without access to my client. This is a denial of my client’s constitutional right to his counsel,” Lawyer L.S. Camara stressed.
Under Section 24(3)(e) of the 1997 Constitution of the Republic of The Gambia, every person who is arrested or detained has the right to communicate with and be visited by a legal practitioner of their choice.
KexxNews contacted the police PRO but promised to do his findings and get back to us as he’s presently at Barra on a patrol.
