By Kemeseng Sanneh (Kexx)
A magistrate has issued a bench warrant for the arrest of Bemba Drammeh, following his failure to appear in court after being charged with seditious intent.
Magistrate Mben Faal granted the police’s request for the bench warrant to be issued, after Drammeh, who had previously been granted bail, absconded from the country and failed to attend a scheduled court appearance.
Drammeh made headlines after an interview on an online television in which he alleged that the 2021 presidential election was rigged and that he, alongside other prominent members of the National People’s Party (NPP), had been involved in the process. Drammeh claimed he would reveal further details “at the right time.”
Following the interview, Drammeh was arrested, detained, and later released on bail by the police. After his release, Drammeh reportedly fled to France, prompting police to revoke the bail. The two sureties who guaranteed him by signing the bail bond were arraigned in court, where each of them paid one hundred thousand dalasi to secure their release.
On Monday, Commissioner A. Sanneh appeared before the Kanifing Magistrates Court and sought a bench warrant after informing the court that Drammeh had failed to appear as ordered. He was due to appear on January 16, 2025, but authorities learned he had left the country.
Magistrate Faal approved the application and ordered that Drammeh be arrested and brought before the court to answer the charges.
