Lawyer Leon Jenkins Johnston representing the managing editor of the Standard Times newspaper, Phillip Neville, in the ongoing trial against the Inspector General of police was absent in court yesterday.
Representing the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, the director of public prosecution Oladipo Vivian Robin Mason said the prosecution was prepared to go on with the matter despite the absence of the accused’s lawyer.
The third prosecution witness, detective police Sgt 4981 Prince James Momodu, was led in evidence by lawyer Gerald J Soyei.
The witness said he recognized the accused and that on June 28 this year he and detective Sgt 2099 Cole E.A had cause to interview the accused in relation to the matter in court. He also informed the court that during the course of their investigation, they received two recorded cassettes from one broadcaster and cameraman Henry Smith of the SLBS attached to State House.
The accused objected pointing out the difference between a broadcaster and a cameraman but lawyer Soyei replied that the broadcaster might have had dual function from the state.
The detective Sgt also tendered in court one audio cassette from Mohamed Alie Bah of State House who records speeches made by president Kabbah.
Magistrate Shyllon asked the accused whether he would cross examine or wait for his lawyer on the adjourned date to do it.
The accused said he wanted to ask the prosecution witness few questions and wait for his lawyer to do the rest.
Magistrate Shyllon cautioned him that it was not proper for him that way even though it was his right and advised him to either wait for his lawyer or proceed. He chose the former.
The DPP appealed on the circumstance that the matter be heard day to day as the prosecution wanted to complete their case.
He also appealed to the accused to ensure that his solicitor be present on the next adjourned date.
The magistrate agreed to his appeal.
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