By Ida Njie
Three days after the High Court acquitted and discharged Abdoulie Sanyang of arson and judicial interference charges, the state has moved to challenge the decision.
In a notice filed with the Court of Appeal, state prosecutors argue that the High Court overlooked crucial admissions and are urging the appellate court to reverse the acquittal, convict Sanyang, and impose an “appropriate sentence.”
On Tuesday, 10th February 2026, Justice Ebrima Jaiteh delivered his judgment, finding that the prosecution failed to provide sufficient evidence connecting Sanyang to the alleged offences.
Justice Jaiteh acknowledged that there was clear evidence of arson at the APRC bureau, but said the state did not prove Sanyang’s involvement in the act.
Regarding the charge of interfering with judicial proceedings, the judge found Sanyang’s remarks to be within the bounds of legitimate public discourse rather than constituting unlawful obstruction.
Background
Abdoulie Sanyang, a former soldier, was arrested and charged following a fire incident at the APRC party bureau and subsequent comments he made about ongoing judicial cases.
His trial drew public interest due to the political sensitivities surrounding both the party and the case. The acquittal was seen by some as a vindication, but the state’s quick move to appeal signals that the legal battle is far from over.
The outcome at the Court of Appeal could have significant implications for how similar cases are handled in the future.
