Magistrate Brima Jah “Dodges” High Profile Hearing

By: Fatmata Mohamed Bangura
Proceedings involving the Secretary General of the main opposition All People’s Congress (APC) party, Lansana Dumbuya Esq, continue to attract significant public attention at the Pademba Road Court No. 1 in Freetown.
The senior APC official is facing three counts of alleged incitement and conduct deemed insulting under existing public order laws. He was remanded on Thursday, 12th February 2026, pending further hearings.
During yesterday’s court sitting (16th February 2026), tensions escalated due to overcrowding concerns in the courtroom.
The presiding magistrate, Mustapha Brima Jah, ruled that only 15 members of the defence team and 2 state counsel would be permitted inside the courtroom in order to maintain order and ensure safety. This decision left many supporters and observers outside the court premises.
After issuing this directive, the magistrate retired to his office. Court officers attempted to ask individuals who were standing inside the courtroom to step outside, but they refused. The magistrate did not return to the courtroom. After sometime, the court clerk informed those present that the magistrate had left without formally adjourning the matter.
The development angered members of the defence team, who convened a brief meeting led by JFK, the lead counsel. He described the situation as a “total disrespect” to the defence, noting that they had been present in court since 8:00 a.m. He expressed disappointment that, after waiting several hours, the magistrate declined to sit on the matter.
The defence further announced its intention to file a formal complaint with the Chief Justice and called on its members to assemble at the Chief Justice’s office at 10:00 a.m. the following day.
The case has generated widespread public discussion, with many citizens closely monitoring developments, as it reflects broader national conversations about law, governance, and political accountability.
The matter was adjourned to 19th February 2026.