By: Alimatu Kargbo
The case involving the Secretary General of the All People’s Congress, Lansana Dumbuya, has been adjourned once again to April 30, 2026, following proceedings at Magistrate Court No. 1.
Dumbuya is facing three count charges, including incitement contrary to law, insulting language contrary to Section 2 of the Public Order Act No.46 of 1965, and behaving in an insulting manner contrary to Section 12(a) of the Public Order Act 1965 as amended by the Public Order (Amendment) Act No.15 of 1973.
According to the particulars of offence, on Saturday 31st January 2026 at the Brima Attouga Mini Stadium in the Western Area of Freetown, the accused allegedly encouraged supporters to chant against the President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Dr. Julius Maada Bio.
Prosecutors allege that Dumbuya asked supporters to repeat after him words suggesting that the President stole the 2023 elections, chanting phrases including “Maada Bio tiffy-tiffy Jankoleeco.”
Count two further states that the accused used insulting language at the same event to the annoyance of the Regional Operations Officer for Freetown East, in a public place by encouraging supporters to sing the chant. The defence team requested additional time to continue its no-case submission.
At the previous hearing held two weeks ago, the defence had successfully applied for an adjournment to advance the same submission, despite initial objections from the prosecution. That request was granted by Magistrate Mustapha Brima Jah.
During trial, the lead defence counsel, S.K. Koroma, was absent, prompting the second defence counsel, Manley Spain, to seek a further two-week adjournment. The defence argued that more time was needed to properly conclude their no-case submission and strengthen their legal arguments.
The prosecution, led by Yusuf Issac Sesay, did not oppose the request. However, the lead prosecutor raised concerns over the repeated delays, stressing the need for the matter to move forward.
He noted that the no-case submission has already taken up to four adjournments, describing the trend as disruptive to court proceedings. He urged the court to ensure fairness and set a clear timeline to bring the case closer to conclusion.
After considering submissions from both parties, Magistrate Mustapha Brima Jah granted the adjournment and fixed April 30, 2026, for the continuation of the hearing.
