A group of supporters today cheered opposition politician Momodou Sabally shortly as he stepped out of the high court annex in Banjul.

Sabally, who was dressed in a yellow African attire, waved to the crowd 

on the first day of his defamation trial. 

He is being sued by one of Gambia’s heavyweight businessmen and owner of Gach company, Abubacarr Jawara for defamation. 

Jawara is demanding 8 million dalasis as damages for defamation, and also wants Sabally to “issue an unreserved apology” to him in the national press.

However, Sabally told supporters that he is hopeful of “a victory”, adding that he has not done anything wrong under the laws of the country.

“Democracy gives us right to speak and express ourselves. We didn’t insult or castigate anyone. We only speak out the truth,” Sabally told his supporters. 

“I thank you all so very much for coming to defend and show solidarity with me in peace and in respect,” he added.

Presiding Judge Justice Ademola Bakre earlier adjourned the defamation trial to January 17, 2023, as Sabally and his lawyer are given ten days to respond to Abubacarr Jawara’s  claim against him.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba