The High Court in Banjul has penalised the Medicine Control Agency (MCA) for repeatedly stalling the high-profile case involving the tragic deaths of several children, allegedly caused by contaminated medicines.
During the hearing held on June 25, 2025, the court expressed serious frustration over the MCA’s persistent requests for adjournment, which have dragged out proceedings and prolonged the grief of the families seeking justice.
Justice Ebrima Jaiteh, who presided over the case, strongly criticised the agency’s lack of preparedness. He described the MCA’s actions as a failure to uphold its responsibilities in a matter of grave national concern. As a consequence, he ordered the agency to pay D2,500 to each plaintiff present in court, recognising the emotional and financial strain caused by the delay.
Despite granting another adjournment to allow the MCA to recall a key witness — the Director of Atlantic Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Ali Schuman — the judge emphasized that such leniency came at a cost. He maintained that the awarded compensation served both as redress and as a reminder that justice delayed is justice denied.
The case resumes today, with continued hopes that the court can finally deliver answers and accountability for the affected families.
