By Fatima Kpaka
Sierra Leone — February 16, 2026: The trial of Lansana Dumbuya, National Secretary General of the opposition All People’s Congress (APC), was abruptly suspended on Monday after Magistrate Mustapha Brima Jah and state prosecutors walked out of the courtroom, citing overcrowding and disputes over defense representation.
The case, which centers on allegations that Dumbuya made incitement statements against President Julius Maada Bio, descended into disorder as more than 100 defense lawyers, journalists, and party supporters packed the courtroom.
Dispute Over Defense Team Size
Before proceedings began, Magistrate Jah instructed that only 15 defense lawyers and two state prosecutors would be permitted to participate, warning that failure to comply would result in adjournment. Despite the directive, the courtroom remained crowded with senior and junior lawyers representing Dumbuya, including Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara, Omieie Gollie, Sahid Sesay, Melron Nicol-Wilson, Ade Macauley, Suliaman Kabba Koroma, Africanus Sesay, and Fornah Sesay.
When the magistrate’s instructions were not followed, he left the bench and later exited the court entirely, reportedly without notifying defense counsel.
Lead defense lawyer Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara expressed disappointment at the magistrate’s actions, describing them as disrespectful to members of the Bar. He announced that the defense team would petition the Chief Justice of Sierra Leone to formally register their complaint.
“We have been in court since 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., only to be told the matter was adjourned without our knowledge. This act must stop. Respect should be accorded to us as lawyers,” Kamara told journalists.
The trial has been adjourned to Thursday, February 19, 2026.