"BRITISH MISSSIONARIES FACE GAMBIA JAIL"  

December 31, 2008

The Government of The Gambia wish to inform all those concerned that:-

Following the recent trial, conviction and sentence of David and Fiona Fulton (British couple) in the Gambian courts, the People and Government of The Gambia have read with great sense of disappointment and wish to clarify the inaccurate information posted or featured on your widely-read British medium, shortly after the judgment was delivered in open court.

Concerned Gambian citizens in Britain brought the issue to The Gambia Police, reporting the two couples in The Gambia who have been suggesting havoc, intolerance from Muslims towards Christians and fabricating stories of an attempt to impose Sharia Law in The Gambia, among other things in order to gain attention, sympathy and financial aid in the name of Christian Missionary work.

The Police conducted an investigation and subsequently prosecuted the couple in court based on the evidence obtained from the investigations. They were charged with the offence of seditious publication, with intent to bring into the country hatred or contempt to excite dissatisfaction against the Gambian people and its leadership, contrary to section 52(1) Of the Criminal Code (Amendment Act No. 3 of 2005) Cap 10 vol. III laws of The Gambia 1990. Thereafter, the couple pleaded guilty as charged and were convicted and sentenced each to a fine of D250, 000.00 (Dalasi) in default six months imprisonment, and an additional mandatory jail term of one year, in accordance with the punishment provided under that section.

The Gambia is one of the most peaceful countries in the world, a country which has preserved stability to its citizens, guests, and neighbors and as a result, is home to many peace loving people from all over the world. Though a predominantly Muslim nation, it is a country where Muslims and Christians are related by blood, by marriage or other wise, and have lived side by side in peace and harmony for generations. The Gambia is also a shining example of a nation were Muslims, Christians, and other religious communities have for generations recognized, tolerated and respected each others beliefs. The existence of this unique relationship between Muslims and Christians as well as the uninterrupted peace enjoyed in The Gambia, has allowed couples like Dave and Fiona to live in The Gambia for over 10 years without let or hindrance from the Government, it's leadership and people.

In the light of this, we hope that your institution will relay the accurate information herein stated. The Judgment document from The Banjul Magistrate Court is available upon request.

Abdoukarim Sonko