Prosecutors argue that the officer remained subject to military law throughout his nine-year absence from the Gambia Armed Forces.
The State has formally opposed an application by Lt. Col. Sanna Manjang to strike out desertion charges currently before Justice O. Cham at the Fajara Barracks. In an affidavit filed by the Attorney General’s Chambers, the prosecution maintained that Manjang’s prolonged absence from duty did not automatically terminate his membership in the Gambia Armed Forces.
The legal challenge follows a motion filed by the defense on October 15, 2026. The State contends that Manjang was on active service when he left the country and failed to formally resign or return issued military property. Prosecutors further disputed claims that he fled due to fears of arrest, noting he remained absent until his January 2026 detention by Senegalese authorities.
The prosecution argued that whether the accused was on active service remains a legal question for the court to decide based on evidence. They urged the court-martial to reject the defense's request to replace the desertion charge with a lesser offense of absence without leave, asserting that the existing charges are competent under military law.
Why it mattersThe proceedings affect Lt. Col. Sanna Manjang, who faces a court-martial for desertion and potential military legal consequences following his nine-year absence.
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