On 19 May 2026, a hearing before the Magistrates’ Court against Lifeline Nehemiah Projects (LNP) members Mohamed Turay the Finance Director and Prince Tommy Williams the Executive Director was adjourned due to irregular interventions by the plaintiff’s lawyers. The defense lawyer requested the adjournment to ensure a fair trial for Mohamed and Prince, and protect them from further judicial harassment. The authorities have accused Prince Tommy Williams of riotous conduct, incitement of violence, and throwing of stones, and Mohamed Turay of the disruption of a police operation. Both human rights defenders face charges in separate trials. Both appear to be prosecuted and targeted by the authorities in Sierra Leone due to their peaceful defense of LNP and its beneficiaries in Freetown.
A police officer, who was one of the key witnesses in the case was present at the hearing. The Court had previously adjourned the proceedings several times, including on 25 February, 18 March and 25 March 2026, mainly due to the absence of this witness. During the cross-examination, the plaintiff’s legal team frequently intervened, interrupting the proceedings and appearing to steer the witness’ answers. The defense lawyer considered these interventions irregular and unethical, and requested an adjournment in order to file a formal complaint with the Inspector General of Police and the Attorney General regarding the misconduct of the plaintiffs’ legal team. The plaintiff’s legal team and the judge requested that LNP’s lawyer refrained from filing the formal complaint and the judge adjourned the trial to an indefinite date.
After concluding an investigation on 2 June 2026, an international rights-based organization Front Line Defenders is calling for an immediate drop of all charges against both men, ensure fair and independent judicial proceedings, cease all forms of judicial harassment, ensure that no further human rights violations are committed against LNP staff and beneficiaries.