Popular Lawyer Basita Micheal has questioned Vice President Juldeh Jalloh attempt to usurp Judicial Authority following statement at Bintumani Townhall in the Fight Against the Kushpedemic

According to the Legal luminary, various media outlets, including awoko newspaper and journalist Amadu Lamara Bah reported that the Vice President VP_Jalloh has instructed that individual arrested in connection with Kush-related offences be denied bail, regardless of the circumstances.

She emphasized that he has purportedly asserted that even if 150 lawyers represent them, they should not be granted bail, emphasizing a predetermined path of incarceration and sentencing. The VP is quoted as saying, “Over the weekend, we intercepted two containers and 7 people are in custody. They will never see sunlight, they will be charged and will be sentenced, and no amount of lawyer will take them out from where they are.”

She pointed out that such pronouncements are deeply troubling on multiple fronts as they Firstly, represent a blatant overreach of executive authority into the domain of the judiciary.

She believes that In a democratic society founded on principles of separation of powers, it is unacceptable for the executive branch to determine the granting of bail to accused persons adding that these functions are rightly within the purview of an independent judiciary, insulated from political influence and beholden only to the impartial application of the law.

Moreover, she affirmed that the Vice President’s statements betray a fundamental disregard for the presumption of innocence, a cornerstone of any fair and just legal system. Every individual accused of a crime is entitled to the presumption of innocence until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. To preemptively declare guilt and prescribe punishment before due process has run its course is a gross violation of this principle and undermines the very fabric of justice.

She cautioned that the government’s approach to combating the kushpedemic must not come at the expense of fundamental human rights affirming that while it is imperative to address the public health and security concerns posed by the illicit drug trade, doing so must be in accordance with established legal norms and respect for individual liberties.

“Denying bail, demanding sentencing without due process and shifting the burden of proof not only infringes upon the rights of the accused but also risks exacerbating social inequalities and perpetuating cycles of injustice.
In their public statements, government officials must advocate for the upholding of the principles of the rule of law and the protection of all individuals’ fundamental rights, regardless of the nature of their alleged crimes. Instead of evading legal procedures, let us confront the Kushpedemic using evidence-based measures that protect human dignity and promote social justice. Let us engage in open and honest debate, consult with experts, including public health and addiction specialists, as well as psychiatrists and psychologists, and collaborate to find practical solutions,” she stated