By Kebba Jeffang
The prosecution on Tuesday, 23rd December, 2014 announced the closure
of their case in the criminal trial involving Sheikh Muhideen Hydara,
Caliph General and the former Sangajor “Alkalo,” Buyeh Touray, after
Madame Siffai Hydara, the Governor of West Coast Region, failed to
appear for the second time to give evidence in the proceedings.
In addressing the court, Chief Inspector Camara reminded the court that at the
last adjourned date, they promised that they will be coming
with the fourth prosecution witness (PW4), who is the governor of the
region. He added that they have now decided to cancel that based on
the reason that she will be saying the same thing that has already
been said by PW1 and PW2.
“In order not to waste the court’s time, I wish to close the case of
the prosecution at this juncture. Court may allow the defence to
commence their defence,” said CI Camara.
Lawyer Lamin Mboge, representing the accused persons, told the court
that he has been taken aback by the application of the prosecution as
he needs to consult his learned senior, Antouman Gaye, so that they can
advise themselves on the next step to take regarding the proceedings.
He however added that he will give notice to the court that defence
may come up with a ‘No Case to Answer’ submission so that they will
not take the prosecution by surprise.
At this juncture, the trial magistrate adjourned the matter to 5th
January, 2015 to hear from the defence team.