Tensions ran high yesterday, Wednesday, May 6th, at the Banjul High Court at the start of the trial of businessman Banta Keïta. Judge Ebrima Jaiteh had a heated exchange with the state's lawyer, SL Jobarteh, threatening to imprison him for contempt of court. The proceedings had, however, begun smoothly.

He refuses to let the defense formulate its objection

Defense attorney SM Tambedou presented a series of affidavits to the court. The prosecution did not object during the reading of the documents.

When given the floor, the state's lawyer, Mr. Jobarteh, rose to present his arguments. During his intervention, Mr. Tambedou raised an objection concerning a part of his argument.

The judge then ordered Mr. Jobarteh to allow the defense to present its objection, but he refused, insisting on his status as a court officer and telling the judge that he had not been treated fairly. Despite repeated instructions from the presiding judge, Mr. Jobarteh continued to interrupt the defense.

"I think I need to send this lawyer to Mile 2 prison to show him I'm not his friend."

Annoyed, Judge Ebrima Jaiteh threatened to throw him in jail. "I think I should send this lawyer to Mile 2 jail to show him I'm not his friend," Mr. Jaiteh said.

Not wanting to see the situation turn sour, the lawyers present in court put pressure on Mr. Jobarteh to remain silent.

They then pleaded for leniency from the judge, who was already preparing to issue an arrest warrant for the state's lawyer. "I beg you in the name of God, do not send him to Mile 2," pleaded lead counsel Badou Conteh. The hearing was ultimately adjourned.