Foroyaa Newspaper Burning Issues Issue No. 141/2007, 30 November - 2 December 2007 Editorial Time For Reflection It is time for the Executive to reflect on its human rights records. Two cases have been filed against it at the West African Community Court. The case of Chief Manneh is awaiting judgment while Saidykhan’s torture case has just been filed. Mile II Prison is meant for convicts and remanded prisoners who should be admitted upon the production of a warrant of a court of law and no other authority. However, the maximum security of the prison looks more like a detention camp that houses detainees, especially former close associates of the president, who have been held for months or more than a year without trial. This is contrary to the letter and spirit of the constitution which the president swore to defend. In short, section 17 (1) of the constitution states: “The fundamental human rights and freedoms enshrined in this Chapter shall be respected and upheld by all organs of the Executive and its agencies, the Legislature and, where applicable to them, by all natural and legal persons in The Gambia, and shall be enforceable by the courts in accordance with this Constitution.” Furthermore, the experience of Chief Manneh’s father with the executive in seeking the release of his son and the self imposed exile of Saidykhan for fear of persecution are a reflection of the reality in The Gambia, an indication that the human rights situation in a poor shape. It is easy for one to conclude that they sought redress in a sub-regional court because they don’t expect justice here. The future of The Gambia lies in the hands of the Gambian people. They can select a tyrant who rules by might or one who is committed to the liberty of the people and will establish a human rights commission that will enable the people to defend their liberty. Such a commission will have the right, for example, to visit police stations to ensure that the human rights of suspects are not infringed upon. ECOWAS Court Update MFWA files another suit against Gambia Gov’t Judgment In Chief Manneh’s Case On January 31 The Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) has filed another suit at the Community Court of Justice of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in Abuja, Nigeria against the Government of The Gambia on the allegation of the illegal detention and torture of Musa Saidykhan. Musa Saidykhan is the Editor-in-Chief of The Independent, a banned bi-weekly newspaper. He was arrested in the aftermath of the March 21 coup attempt following the publication of a news report on the attempted coup. Reports have it that on the eve of March 27 a combined force of armed soldiers and policemen arrested Musa Saidykhan in his home and took him to the headquarters of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA). The Independent’s offices were raided and the staff present at the time were all arrested and briefly detained. He was held incommunicado for 22 days without charge before he was released. “I was stripped naked while live electric shocks were administered on all over my body, including my genitals. I was told by my torturers that electric shocks on my genitals were meant to make me impotent,” Saidykhan alleges. Though allegations of torture by security personnel have been rife during criminal trials, this is the first time a case has been filed against the government of the Gambia alleging torture by its agents. On the Chief Manneh’s case the community court has slated January 31, 2008 as judgment day. This decision was made when the three panel of judges sat on Wednesday, 28 November to hear the final submission from Chief Manneh’s lawyer, Mr. Femi Falana, a Nigerian human rights lawyer and President of the West African Bar Association. The court noted that this will give it adequate time to write its judgment. On Monday, November 26, the court heard the testimonies of three witnesses. The first witness, a Gambian, testified that he saw Chief Manneh being arrested by security agents from Bakau Police Station on 7 July, 2006 at the premises of Daily Observer. Another witness also a Gambian, testified that he saw Chief Manneh in December, 2006 at a Police Station in Fatoto at the eastern end of the country. The third witness, the Director of MFWA, testified that the information they received was verified and that they forwarded reports calling for the release of Chief Manneh to the Gambia government before filing a suit at the West African Court. The Gambia government has never made an appearance before the court nor offered any explanation to it. The court however has confirmed that the Gambia government was duly served. Fatou Jaw Manneh’s Trial Court Yet To Receive Record Of Proceedings By Fabakary B. Ceesay The sedition trial of journalist Fatou Jaw Manneh could not proceed at the High Court before Justice Mabel Maome Yamoa, on Wednesday 28 November. The record of proceedings of the case which was requested by Justice Yamoa, is yet to be brought to Court. Furthermore, the grounds of the appeal is not yet before the court.. The state counsel Mrs. Marley Woods informed the court that there were delays in the typing of the record of proceedings at the Kanifing Magistrates Court. She said the typist is yet to finish the job. The defence counsel, Lamin Jobarteh said they have no choice as far as the secretary is not ready with the typing of the records; that they will not object to an adjournment of the matter to another date. Justice M.M. Yamoa at this juncture called for immediate actions to be taken for the typing to finish as soon as possible. Justice Yamoa also said she did not have the grounds of the state’s appeal before her. Mrs. Njaimeh Jallow, a co-state counsel indicated that the grounds of appeal were filed on the very day. However, Justice Yamoa stressed that she did not see it. She said “I will not look at it, I do not expect to deal with any matter that has been filed on the very day if the prosecution fails to do what they are supposed to do, I’m afraid, I will have to do what I have to do. The Case was adjourned till December 7. Where Is Ismaila Mang Jammeh? Police Deny Detaining MFDC Bigwig By Fabakary B. Ceesay Ismaila Mang Jammeh, a member of the MFDC hierarchy is not in police custody, said Police Spokesperson, inspector Sulayman Secka. A Senegalese Newspaper recently reported that the separatist from the Senegalese region of Casamance was arrested in Gambian soil by the authorities in Banjul. However, the paper did not state the name of the people who arrested him and the place he was held. Rumours were also rife that Jammeh was murdered by forces loyal to Salif Sarjo, the leader of the faction that is presently waging a fierce guerilla war against the Senegalese Army and the Jakai Forces believed to be under the leadership of Swaebou Kabonge Jatta. Reports have it that Jammeh went missing several months ago. He is said to be in the same faction with Alexandra Gibba, who was recently spotted in the courts with a group of detainees who are suspected of being members of the MFDC Military Wing. Nine of them are now standing trial at the Banjul Magistrates Court. Ismaila Mang Jammeh is said to have gone missing during the bitter factional fighting involving rival MFDC factions. The police spokesman, Inspector Sulayman Secka said the police have never had such a name in their custody. He said “Ismaila Mang Jammeh was never in our custody”. The military public relations officer, Lieutenant Alagie Sanneh could not be reached for comment. He is said to be out of the country. Allegations Against Senegalese Gov’t Intensifies By Fabakary B. Ceesay More allegations against the Senegalese government were made as the trial of nine alleged MFDC insurgents progressed before Magistrate B.Y Camara of the Banjul Magistrates Court on Thursday 29 November. Testifying in court the state witness, NIA officer Amadou Sanyang PW2 told the court that when Abdousalam Jammeh, accused person No. 8 was brought before the investigation panel on 13 May and 5 June, he (Abdousalam) said their group of five received subvention from the Senegalese Government. Officer Sanyang said Abdousalam and another accused person told them that they received 3 million francs CFA every month to execute their operations in the Gambia and Casamance. He said that Adbousalam indicated to them that the monies they received from the Senegalese Government came through one Latif Hydara with the knowledge of the Senegalese High Commission in the Gambia and that they received it at Praia Hotel in Serrekunda. Officer Sanyang indicated that Abdousalam told them that the Senegalese Government gave them many vehicles, motorbikes and provided tickets for their elders in Casamance to go on pilgrimage to Mecca and Rome; that each elder was given 50 million francs CFA. Sanyang also told the court that Abdousalam told them that he was sent to go and buy arms and ammunitions from Sierra Leone but that their boat capsized at sea near Guinea where he was hospitalized. Sanyang noted that when Abdousalam appeared before the panel he was very healthy and that he never noticed any tortured scars on him or blood stains. He said Abdousalam voluntarily made his own statement by writing it and was witnessed by an independent witness named Tijan Bah. He said Abdousalam never complained to him personally about any beating or torture inflicted on him at the time of making his statement. Sanyang denied the allegation by Abdousalam that he was forced to make the statement and that he did not write his statement himself. Going further, Amadou, the witness told the court that on 21 May and 4 June, Nuha Jammeh accused person number three was brought to the panel. He said Nuha confessed that he is from Casamance and is a member of MFDC fighting to liberate Casamance from Senegal. Sanyang said Nuha told him that he is a member of the group of five (5) who are based in The Gambia. Officer Sanyang said Nuha told them that he is the one responsible for the financial aspect of the group. He indicated that Nuha Jammeh disclosed to them that they survived on the subvention given to them by the Senegalese government through Latif Hydara which is always witnessed by an official from the Senegalese High Commission. Officer Sanyang indicated that they were told by Nuha Jammeh that their arms and ammunitions were buried in the forest in Casamance. Sanyang pointed out that Nuha refused to comment on their operations in the Gambia. Sanyang also indicated that Nuha’s voluntary statement was witnessed by an independent witness, Tijan Bah. He pointed out that Nuha was never beaten, tortured or harassed to make a statement. He said that the statement was obtained at his own free will. In another development, the accused persons complained that the reasons for not having a counsel is because the prison authorities deny them visitors who can help them get a counsel. They said they were told by the prison authorities that an order must come from the court to allow them visitors. Magistrate B. Y. Camara ruled that if the prison authorities demand that an order must come from the court to enable them to have visitors, it will be done. He instructed the Director of Public Prosecutions to look into the allegations that they were being denied visitors. The DPP promised to do so. International Day Of The Disabled December 3 By Yaya Bajo The annual observation of the international Day of Disabled persons would be celebrated 3 December, 2007 world-wide and its aims are to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilise support for the dignity, rights and well-being of persons with disabilities. It also seeks to increase awareness of gains to be derived from the integration of persons with disabilities in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life. The theme of the day is based on the goal of full and equal enjoyment of human rights and participation in society by persons with disabilities, established by the world programme of action concerning disabled persons, adopted by the general assembly in 1982. The observance of the day provides opportunities for participation by all interested communities, governments, non-governmental and the private sector to focus on catalytic and innovative measures to further implement international norms and standards related to persons with disabilities. Schools, universities and similar institutions can make particular contributions with regard to promoting greater interest and awareness among interested parties of the social, cultural, economic, civil and political rights of persons with disabilities. The event will feature forums, public discussions and information campaigns in support of the day focusing on disability issues and trends and ways and means by which persons with disabilities and their families are pursuing independent life styles, sustainable livelihoods and financial security. In view of this, Foroyaa caught up with the president of National Union of Disabled Youths, Mr. Ebrima Dibbasey, who explained that the theme for the day will be Empowerment and Mainstreaming Disability in the development processes. He added that the day is significant for both disabled persons and general public at large. He said the day will enable disabled people to reflect on the past with regards to their achievements, constraints and challenges in actualising the opportunities that are available to the rest of the society. He urged all and sundry to fully participate in the programme. Measles Immunization Campaign in Progress By Sarjo Camara Singhateh As the National Measles Immunization Campaign kicks off nation-wide, this reporter is with the Unicef team in the Central River Region to take part in the weeklong measles campaign. The team which is headed by Mr. Jawara Saidykah of Unicef visited various teams in different villages within the itinerary. On Wednesday, the team visited Fullabantang, Brikamaba, Niamina West, Niamina Dankunku, Kerr Njole, Biram, Niamina Barro Kunda amongst others. Speaking to this reporter, Lamin Ceesay, the Public Health Officer who is responsible for the Brikama-ba team said people have responded well especially during the first day.He stated that the mothers help them a lot, because even if the children want to resist, their mothers do intervene and help them. At Biram ,we were told that the information has reached them that vaccinators will come but the mothers decided to go to their farms. The attendance at Kerr Njole was very good. I spoke to one Fatoumatta Sowe who said the reason why she brought her child for immunization is to prevent her from contracting the disease. She stated that prevention is better than cure. In Niamina West, the coverage was fair as villages are far from each other and that only two teams are responsible for that wide area. The team that was posted to Niamina Dankunku moved to other villages after members successful completed their assignment in the area. Speaking to this reporter to confirm some of the alleged constraints that have been reported, the Public Health Officer at Dankunku, Buba Darboe stated that they had secured 2 vehicles from the regional health team in Bansang, but that one of the vehicles has a breakdown and now they are managing with only one vehicle. Mr. Janko Jimbara, a health officer, said they will make efforts to provide the team with another vehicle work swi. He saidpetrol will be provided to enhance the work of motorcyclists.He stated that the teams are on track and it is expected that they will all meet their targets before the end of the exercise. FOCUS ON POLITICS SANNA MANNEH IS NOW FREE PRESIDENT JAWARA, WHAT NEXT? With Suwaibou Touray We have been focusing on politics in this column. In the last edition, we have reminded our readers of the famous libel case against Editor Sanna Manneh of the Torch Newspaper. We have published the verdict of Hon. Grante where he acquitted and discharged Sanna . We have stopped where he concluded his verdict as thus; “To sum up, I find the accused a) Not guilty on count 1, i.e the charge dealing with Saihou Sabally and I acquit and discharge him on that count. b) Guilty on count 2, i.e the charge dealing with Landing Jallow Sonko. c) Not guilty on both parts of counts 3, i.e the charge dealing with Dr. Lamin Saho. The Honourable Magistrate finally cited section 178 of the criminal code, which stated that criminal libel is a misdemeanor; that No specific punishment is stated or prescribed for that offence. The accused he said was a first offender, and as such, this court ought not to take into consideration custodial sentence. The article itself he said was restraint; that it says “we will restraint ourselves to say much about him,” that nothing was disclosed to members of the public, unlike the other charges, apart from the innuendo the court found in it that he the minister was corrupt like his other friends. Hon. Grante then implored the court that the Accused, Sanna Manneh, was a first offender, with no intention to defame the minister, and therefore should be cautioned and discharged. He then cautioned and discharged him to be of good behaviour. Hon. Grante’s judgment created a huge euphoria and Sanna and the general public were thrilled. This is the first time since Independence that the Gambian judiciary had successfully uncovered a high calibre corruption scandal involving senior politicians. Many saw it as a big shame for the PPP Government that could not be defended. Would the two ministers in Jawara’s cabinet dance to their own tunes as promised by Sir Dawda or would they resign from their portfolios? These were the questions in the ‘vous’ and ‘bantabas’ across the country At this time even un-lettered Gambians did buy and ask their children to read for them the Foroyaa Newspaper, which was reporting thus waiting to see what would be the next move of the President, now that the editor was acquitted and discharged from the libel and defamation case against him. The general public expected that President Jawara was going to do either of the two or both and that is to dismiss the two cabinet ministers followed by arrest and subsequently trial for corruption and crimes related to it or ask them to resign. PRESIDENT JAWARA’S REACTION TO THE JUDGMENT Amidst this anxiety, Baboucar Gaye, the BBC stringer, had an interview with President Jawara for his reaction on the judgment of the magistrate. PRESIDENT JAWARA: No, I don’t think I will react to the judgment, but I will inform you that I understand from the Attorney General and Minister of Justice that he intends to appeal against the judgment of the magistrate and I understand he will quite soon lodge a petition for appeal. MR GAYE: So in the mean time from what has transpired in the case you do not think it is necessary that any of your ministers should resign or in fact be kicked out of the cabinet? PRESIDENT JAWARA: Certainly not (mark the emphasis). MR. GAYE: You are perfectly satisfied that they are all honest men? PRESIDENT JAWARA: Well, the legal process has started and it is going to continue, from the information that I received from the Attorney General and I think we should let the next stage of the legal process be completed. Foroyaa’s comment Here, the presiding is saying that he will not take action on the basis of the judgment because the legal process is not complete. It is a fact that the legal process is not complete? Of course, it is not a fact. We will prove this point later. In the mean time, let us go on with the interview. MR. GAYE: And you don’t think that will be too much really. Would it not appear it’s somewhat like witch-hunting? PRESIDENT JAWAA: What, What? MR. GAYE: Well, I mean in terms of Mr. Manneh, does it not mean the state is wasting too much time as this is an allegation which has basically been proven at least in the first trial? PRESIDENT JAWARA: Well, if you say they are proven, I mean the legal process has not gone full cycle yet. So to say that it’s proven or not proven is premature. A court has taken a decision and the judgment is going to be appealed against in a higher court. So I think here we are talking about the reputation of individuals, ministers, which is extremely important. So that it’s quite justifiable if the legal authorities feel that the judgment should be appealed against. I think the matter should be pursued in the interest of equity and justice. FOROYAA maintained that the legal cycle is complete and the court has found the ministers corrupt. Foroyaa asked the president to join them in the classroom for some lessons. The full cycle of the legal process before a subordinate court according to part 5 of the criminal procedure code which states that, if at the appointed time for the hearing of the case both prosecutor and the accused person appeared before the court and a plea is taken and is not guilty and court proceeded to hear the evidence and if at the close of the evidence in support of the charge it appears to the court that a case is not made out against the accused person sufficiently to require him to make a defence,The court shall acquit the person. FOROYAA said in Mr. Manneh’s case, a motion for no case to answer was not made. That all the steps were taken until a judgment was made on the matter; that Hitler would have qualified as an advocate of the rule of law and a champion of human rights if in a country justice is not measured by the yardstick of just laws but by a yardstick that is a figment of one’s imagination and so on and so on. The anxiety of the people was short-lived when Radio Gambia on Friday announced that the Attorney General filed an appeal against the judgment of his worship, Mr. Wallace Grante, on the case. According to the Nation, to those who were concerned about human rights, democracy, freedom of opinion, freedom of the press and above all, freedom and the independence of the judiciary, this attempt of the Attorney-General seemed to make a mockery of all that was being said that this country was a “model of democracy”. According to the Nation, despite the pressure, one of the ministers said before the verdict in close quarters that he would not resign because he had done nothing wrong. Referring to this particular stance of the minister, the Nation reported that the president was supporting him on this issue of refusal to resign. They then asked whether that means that a revolt against the president was imminent as some people were saying? The Nation reminded the president of his earlier pronouncements in 1978 when he was addressing parliament. The president complained that “The performance of the judiciary leaves a lot to be desired and by judiciary, I mean not only the Bench but also the Prosecuting and Defence Counsels,” They quoted the president as saying, “For example, when a magistrate convicts a man of crime involving misappropriation of scores of thousands of Dalasis or even less, the prosecuting counsel does not even bother to complain and the whole matter is played down until time runs out either to lodge an appeal or for the case to be reviewed, the culprit gets away with it entirely through default.” The President was also quoted as saying in 1987 at a press conference, that, “if anyone has any case of corruption, he the president, would see that it was taken up and referred to the courts, that it was the duty of any citizen to point out without fear, corruption and inconsistency. The Nation further made reference to the presidents’ answer to a question in 1978 at a press conference on Discipline and in which he said that he would never say what he did not mean. If the president means what he said, the Nation reminded, then he should order an inquiry into the assets of ministers; that he should follow the examples of Zimbabwe and Japan where Ministers had resigned because of corruption. The Nation asserted that the matter was serious and the fight to put things right seems to be led not by the opposition parties but the press that was at the forefront. Belgian Philanthropists Assist Jambanjelly Day-Care Centre By Modou Jonga A charitable body in Belgium, the VZW DE GAMBIAVRIEN DEN, recently made a donation to the Jambanjelly Day Care Centre, in the Kombo South, at a ceremony held at the centre. The donated items, which are estimated at five hundred thousand dalasis, included computers, seats, bicycles, wheel chairs, medical items, amongst others. Speaking at the presentation ceremony. Mr. Fabba Jammeh, Secretary of the sister organisation of the Belgian body based in The Gambia, expressed delight over the donation. While hailing the significance of the gesture of the Belgian philanthropic body, Mr. Jammeh expressed hope that the Link will continue to grow. For his part, Mr. Ousman Darboe, Coordinator of the Link, applauded the efforts of the women folk in the community of Jambanjelly towards the success of the Link with the Belgian based organisation. He revealed that 54 pupils at the Day care Centre are being sponsored by their Belgian friends. Mr. Darboe noted his organisation’s resolve to sponsor the students to secondary school level. The Jam-Bely coordinator noted that his organisation is keen in equipping the Jambanjelly Youth Centre with books and computers. Mr. Patrick Devos, head of the Belgian philanthropists, expressed delight in witnessing the presentation of the items. He hailed the benevolent gesture of his colleagues and noted his resolve in strengthening the fruitful Link with the sister organisation. Sally Bojang delivered the vote of thanks on behalf of the mothers of the sponsored children. HEALTH AND NUTRITION BANTABA By Sarjo Camara Singhateh The Senior Principal Officer of the National Nutrition Agency (NaNA), Mr. Amat Bah, said the importance of Iodine could not be overemphasised. He said Iodine is an essential element (mineral) needed in small amounts for growth and development, especially the brain. He said that the lack of adequate intake of Iodine has several health consequences which together is called Iodine Deficiency Disorders. Mr. Bah was making presentation on the topic ‘Iodine Deficiency Disorders (IDD) control’ during the Agency’s training with National Assembly Members. He said Iodine Deficiency Disorders could cause enlarged thyroid glands (Goiter). He said Iodine could be found in food and water; that the amount in plants and plant products depends on the contents in the soil, and also in seafoods, such as lobsters, shrimps, fish, oysters, sea snails and crabs. He explained that Iodine Deficiency Disorders is caused by the low content of the mineral in some diets. He went on to say that the daily requirement is very small ranging from 100-150ug per and only about a teaspoon is needed for one’s entire life. Mr Bah gave a report of the iodine situation in The Gambia from 1999 to 2004. He said the median urinary iodine (ug) is 4.18, total goiter rate 16.3% and house-hold iodized salt consumption are 9.0% in 1999 and 13.3% in 2004. On global prevalence, Mr. Bah said Iodine Deficiency Disorders affect an estimated 1.6 billion people in more than 130 countries around the world of which 60 million are school age children with varying degrees: 710 million from Asia, 60 million from Latin America, 20-30 million from Europe, 227 million from Africa, which is the 2nd highest prevalence in the world, second only to Asia. The NaNA official dilated on the consequences of IDD and said it reduces IQ. He said school children living in Iodine deficient areas have on average 19 to-15 points lower IQ than those insufficient intakes areas. For reproductive failure, he said pregnant women who lack Iodine are at greater risk of spontaneous abortion, still birth and low birth weight; childhood mortality etc. He explained that Iodine deficiency kills children because of lowered defence against infections, low thyroid hormone leading to sluggishness, sleeplessness, dry skin, constipation and low productivity and that socio-economic retardation makes people mentally slower and less vigorous. He added that such people are harder to educate and motivate and therefore less productive at work. Mr. Bah explained that pregnant women with iodine deficiency can give birth to off-springs with Cretinism, an irreversible and a severe form of mental and physical retardation; Deformism, mutism and deafness; growth retardation in children of all ages; that iodine deficiency can retard physical growth and cause goitre (the enlarged thyroid gland), an adaptation of the body to the lack of iodine. He said that although in most cases it is not serious, it could be so large to cause suffocation in some cases. MARRIAGE AND FAMILY ‘TUMAL’ (ACCUSATION) Part 6 By Amie Sillah Mum Proves His Innocence Doctor proved her innocence. She broke emotionally as she explained her episode. “We were madly in love. Referred to as the couple of the century. Your dad adored me. He never laid a finger on me until that fateful day. I came from work wanted to hug my sweet heart and he gave me the shock of my life. He beat me to comma. I almost lost my life in the process. Your dad never allowed me to explain my side of the story. I found myself at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the hospital straight from the operating theatre. I ended up with broken arms and a broken jaw. I was in comma. I stayed in hospital for 6 months. Your dad or his people never visited me or cared how I felt. Since we separated I fear men. If my sunshine could treat me as thrash. Who else would not? That was my dilemma until now when I started to come out of my shell and meet male friends. For 18 years I allowed no man to touch me. My Dad Sponsors My Education My dad as a retired vice chancellor used his connections and secured a position for me at Howard. I was devastated to be banned from seeing you or touching you. I cried to stupor everyday knowing that my child was illegally denied to me. This is a difficult moment for any woman. I refused to get married or to stand any man. Do you believe me?” Emy asked Emma. “I do mum,. I do.” They hugged and shed emotional tears. Emma left her mum both greatly fulfilled. Emma And B.B Emma explained her encounter to B.B. “Do you believe her explanation?” B.B asked. “Yes! I do. I know my dad now. He must have been hallucinating. Dad is jealous and obsessive. He can be emotionally blind sometimes. I intend to get to the bottom of all this mystery.” “But who was the other woman?” B.B asked. “That’s why I vow to get to the bottom of it. It is an assignment of my life. I have to talk to dad to tell me what happened. I’ll not inform mum for now.” “I am so happy for you,” put in B.B. “Girl! This is my life. It has been shattered for so long,” Emma confessed. Emma With Her Dad She cooked dad’s delicacy and committed him to grant her her wish. He agreed. Then she asked him what happened between him and her mum that fateful day. Victor wanted to back track. “But you promised dad. Are you going back on your promise?” “You are a cunning daughter. You got me. He explained what had happened with great pain. “I was advised by my parents not to marry her. I defied everybody and what happened? She brought my boss into our matrimonial home and had sex with him on our matrimonial bed. It was awful. The pain and humiliation was beyond imagination.” “How are you sure she was the one?” Emma asked. “I saw her clothes scattered on our bed. My boss escaped through the back door. I saw it with my two eyes.” “Did you see mom?” “No! She escaped.” Emma sympathised with him to gain his confidence. “Who else was with you?” Emma asked. “Neneh, a provincial girl. She was on school vacation. She was 15 years old.” “I am sorry dad.” “Thank you! There is no more pain. I have you now. Eat your food,” Victor urged his daughter. Emma Visits The Nanny The nanny lived next to granny’s town in a big village. Emma visited Granny and gave her her allowance from her dad. Then she paid Neneh a visit. She introduced herself. Neneh was excited. “Oh Emma! You have grown into a beautiful damsel. Just like your dad and mom. You have taken a bit from each of them. I am surprise to see you. I hope everything is well?” “Yes! Everything is fine. But what has happened to your face. It is all with bruises,” Emma empathised with her. “My hussy batters me like a punching bag. He threw me out of his house. My marriage is unbliss. I know no peace in my marriage.” Emma narrated her mission. “Aunty Neneh, you were the nanny working for my parents when I was three months old. I understand you were present when they separated. Can you shed light on it?” Emma got the shock of her life. “It was all my fault.” Neneh narrated everything that had happened. “I was the other woman. Your mum was at work. Mr. Peters came to me. We had an affair in your parents bedroom. I was afraid to explain it to Victor. He would have killed me.” “What! Aunty Neneh! You are mean and wicked. You separated two lovely and devoted couple. You destroyed my life. You are disgusting!” “I was afraid. I have received enough punishment. I am on restitution. I am ready to confess. I want to go to my grave in peace. ” “That was mean and wicked of you. You destroyed my family and denied me the attention of two lovely parents. Victor Visits His Mum Victor visited grandma. “But Emma visited me yesterday. You should have come together. The roads are risky,” Grandma complained. “But we have no choice. We have to visit you. Moreover, I sent Emma to bring your allowance. I can’t trust these university students with money.” “No! Not my lass. Emma is a disciplined girl.” Grandma defended her grand daughter. Emma Arrives With Neneh “What! You two?” Both Victor and grandma questioned the duo. “Dad! Grandma! Listen to Neneh. She had a confession to make,” Emma announced. “What is it? ” Victor asked. “I was the other woman who you mistook for Madam. She is innocent. I had an affair with your boss.” “What!” Grandma and Victor exclaimed. Victor rushed at Neneh and beat her mercilessly. He was separated from her before she got hurt. “Leave me to kill this witch! She is wicked and vicious. What a shame! I am finished, what should I do next? Where should I start?” Victor lamented. Grandma was flabbergasted. “To say that Emy was innocent all this while? Neneh is wicked,” Grandma said. Victor was ashamed. A Family Meeting “Where will I start. I have wronged an innocent soul all this while. You should leave me to kill Neneh,” Victor said. “That will not help you. Leave her, God will punish her. She will not know peace,” Grandma advised. “You have to search for Emily and apologize to her,” Grandma advised. Emma announced she can help. “But how? You were only three months when this happened,” Grandma said. “I know where to find her. I would show you dad.” “Are you joking?” Victor asked. “No dad! I can’t joke with my life,” Emma said. To be cont’d Danish Philanthropists Donate To Sifoe By Modou Jonga A charitable organisation based in Denmark, The Health Watchers Association, on Tuesday 27 November, 2007 donated new shoes, and uniforms to pupils of Sifoe Lower Basic School in the Kombo South. Speaking at the presentation held at the school’s ground, Madam Alice Modsen disclosed that her association has been assisting the pupils of the said school since seven years ago. She noted that second hand clothes, school furniture, reading and exercise books, medical items, amongst others, were previously donated to the school. On her part, Madam Lilian Davidsen noted that the assistance her association has been rendering to the school is worth over four hundred and thirty thousand dalasis. While noting her association’s resolve to continue assisting the school, Madam Davidsen revealed that two hundred and fifteen students are currently being sponsored by the Health Watchers Association. Also speaking at the presentation ceremony was Mr. Lamin B. Ceesay Headmaster of Sifoe Lower Basic School who expressed gratitude to the donors and the hope that the assistance rendered to his school will grow from strength to strength. Mr. Ceesay underscored the significance of the donated items to the pupils and the educational sector. Earlier, reliable reports, had it that the headmaster’s store, where the donated materials are kept, had been broken into and numerous donated items said to have been stolen. Speaking to this reporter, the headmaster confirmed the burglary. He noted that the theft was reported to Gunjur Police Station and that the police had visited the scene. Art & Music FOROYAA INTERVIEWS TAPHA TAAL, MBALLAX VOCALIST By Madiba Singhateh Below is an exclusive interview with a striving Gambian ‘Mballax’ vocalist, Tapha Taal, at his residence in London Corner. Foroyaa: Please introduce yourself. Tapha: My full names are Tapha Taal. Foroyaa: What is your educational background? Tapha: I did not really have an educational career. My biological father is a Senegalese citizen but my mum is a Gambian. Foroyaa: So where did you actually learn to sing? Tapha:, I started my musical career since I was young, in Senegal, in 1988 and continued up to 1992 when I came back after my father’s death. Foroyaa: You must have been quite lonely as a child, living away from your parents especially your mum, so how did you cope with that situation? Tapha: For me, I fought the loneliness in those days by singing for my mum. Foroyaa: Did you produce any album so far? Tapha: I have succeeded in producing my first two singles. The first single is called “Bambagi’ and the second is “Congebi”. All of them were recorded in Senegal by Technique Bye in Parcelle, Dakar. I have also done some recording in The Gambia on Election and another one on the AU, which were recorded by Mr. Kebba Taylor. Foroyaa: What inspired you to go for Mballax? Tapha: Mballax inspires me because as a tradition of the Wollof ethnic group, I feel like singing something that can be inspiring and educative and in a language understood by the people. Foroyaa: Do you have any sponsors in your strife to develop your music? Tapha: The problem with sponsors is that they do not pay the work sufficiently enough even though they work with me. Foroyaa: So have you had any chance to be featured on television? Tapha: Yes I have done a combination for the U-20 team, in which most artists were featured, such as Yusupha Ngum, his brother, Minkailu Ngum, and others. We came up with an album on a CD8 track, which included about eight artists. Foroyaa: What is the name of your song sang by the group? Tapha: The song is Jakarloo and it was sponsored by Mabu and arranged by Kebba Taylor. Foroyaa: Were you part of any band or is this the first time you played with others? Tapha: In 1999, I was with a band called Daragi. Foroyaa: So Tapha, what do you want to tell the people? Tapha: I want to tell the people to support us the artists so that we can play the music and contribute to development of society and the world at large. Let the radio stations and TV play our music and do away with discrimination. Foroyaa: What is your final word to our readers? Tapha: Well I want to thank Arouna Drammeh at Mediamatic for the solidarity he has been giving to artists. Many have benefited from his free services. I want to tell your readers and my fans that they will soon hear some good news. I also want to add that I am not a narrow nationalist. I am committed to Pan Africanism because I believe that all Africans are one and the same. Foroyaa: Thank you and I look forward to the good news. Tapha: Thank you very much. It’s a pleasure. Murder Suspect Detained For 3 Years Without Charge By Saikou Ceesay Kalilu Mai Conteh, a native of Baddibou Konteh Kunda has been held in detention for allegedly murdering his brother Kebba Conteh in Baddibou Konteh Kunda, three years ago. He was also accused of being the cause of a sudden death of one pregnant woman, wife of one Dunkur Conteh, native of Baddibou Jarfari but residing in Brusubi. The accused was said to have been held in detention for three years without being charged. A source informed this reporter that there are many detainees at the State Central Prison who have not been charged or taken before any court of law for weeks or months. When Foroyaa contacted the police officer isaid to be in charge of Human Rights related issues, Corporal Mustapha Fatty, he said that he was not aware of the persistent detention of detainees at Mile Two prison, including the two males and two females accused of murder. He said he had planned to tour all the cells and prisons in the country so as to know the condition of the prisoners and detainees there. Editor’s Note: FOROYAA will find out from the Police why detainees are kept for long before being charged and taken to court and why police detainees are held at Mile II Prison. PS Dilates On Human Rights Education In Schools By Annia. B. Gaye Mr. Baboucarr Boye, the Permanent Secretary Department of State for Basic and Secondary Education, deputizing for his Secretary of State, noted that the integration of human rights education in the basic school system, coupled with developing a national implementation strategy report is important as it responds to one of the basic aims of the education policy 2004-2015. He said it would create awareness on the importance of peace, democracy, human right duties and responsibilities of individuals in fostering these qualities. Mr. Boye made these remarks at the opening of a validation workshop of the report on the integration of Human Rights Education in the Gambian educational system and the development of a National implementation strategy. The workshop was held at Corinthia Atlantic Hotel in Banjul. He said as they are committed to providing universal access to relevant and quality Basic Education, the inclusion of Human Rights Education is welcome. He noted that UNESCO/ BREDA, in collaboration with the Department of State for Basic and Secondary Education, has started work on Human Rights as an integral aspect of the educational system, since 2002. “Education for All’ co-ordinators from the sub-region met in June 2002 to discuss strategies and work on a document that would assist them in integrating human rights and the culture of peace in the EPA National Action Plans of member states,” he said. He added that after the meeting democracy, human rights and peace education were given prominence in the EPA National Action Plans of The Gambia. Permanent Secretary Boye further said that UNESCO draws its focus on Resolution 59/113B of the United Nation’s General Assembly, adopted in July 2005, charging the UN High Commission for Human Rights to popularize the first phase (2005-2007) of the Action Plan of the World Programme for Human Rights Education in primary and secondary schools. “This plan of action was to be disseminated and member states assisted to incorporate human rights education into their school systems,” he said. He observed that the 1997 Republican Constitution has guaranteed democracy and adherence to the rule of law, respect for human rights, fundamental freedom, and also provided that “Basic Education shall be free and compulsory.” He reiterated that UNESCO has contributed to the efforts of the international community in the promotion, encouragement of, and respect for, human rights and fundamental freedoms and is mandated to contribute to the creation of a universal culture of human rights by focusing on areas where it has comparative advantage. He said UNESCO is presently working with the Islamic Scientific, Educational and Cultural Organisation (ISESCO), in supporting the Research Policy Network on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. Mr. Sukai M. Bojang, the Secretary General of NATCOM, in quoting the former Secretary General of the United Nations on International Human Rights Day, said that “Human Rights Education is much more than a lesson in schools or a theme for a day. It is a process to equip people with the tools they need to live a life of security and dignity.’’ Sheriff Minteh’s Murder Trial Not Progressing By Saikou Ceesay The murder trial of Sheriff Minteh involving Dudu Janneh, alias Dudu Boy, could not proceed at the Bundung Magistrates Court on Tuesday 27 November before Magistrate Amie Sillah Camara. Counsel Lamin Camara, the complainant’s lawyer, did not appear as well as the defendant’s two lawyers namely; Lawyer Tambedou and Lawyer Jobarteh. Meanwhile the reason for the absence was not mentioned in the court. The trial Magistrate Amie Sillah Camara vowed that the next sitting will proceed even if the counsels for both parties happen to be absent. She indicated that the accused has been in remand for a while without the case proceeding and that the case needs to be expedited so as to know the accused person’s fate. 772 Samateh represented the IGP **************************************Check out AOL's list of 2007's hottest products. 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