The trial of the embattled former Managing Director of Gamtel, Mr. Omar Ndow, could not proceed yesterday at the Banjul Magistrates’ Court owing to the absence of the defence counsel, Lawyer Tambedou, who was said to be on leave. The case was therefore adjourned to 21st August 2007 for continuation.

The accused has been standing trial on two criminal charges of disobedience of statutory duty and abuse of office. The charge sheet indicates that between 2005 and 2006 the accused, while employed as Managing Director of Gamtel, willfully failed to follow the required procedure of Gambia Public Procurement Authority (GPPA), in addition to willfully omitting to refer a contract proposal to GPPA as statutorily required of him in the procedure to award contracts.

The accused in the meantime is reported to be facing further charges of stealing at the High Court, all of which he has denied.