UNC MPs reappear in court

UNC MPs Manohar Ramsaran and Hamza Rafeeq along with seven civilians on various charges arising out of protests in Chaguanas on Budget Day (two Mondays ago), reappeared before a Chaguanas magistrate Monday, during which time, both the Defence and Prosecution agreed to November 20 as the next date of hearing of the case.

The adjournment was requested by Third Court prosecutor Insp Ashton Clarke, who told Magistrate Margaret Alert that certain issues in relation to evidence, still had to be clarified. During the case yesterday, there was a heavy police presence both inside and outside the courthouse. Among those present to listen to proceedings were Opposition UNC leader Basdeo Panday, UNC chairman Wade Mark, Ken Emrith and Fyzabad MP Chandresh Sharma and several others. ACP Crime Oswyn Allard was also present. All nine accused persons were represented by attorneys Prakash Ramadhar, Brian Dabideen and UNC senator Robin Montano.

Chaguanas MP Manohar Ramsaran, Caroni Central MP Hamza Rafeeq, political analyst and columnist Dr Kirk Meighoo, Imam Muakayl Abdullah, Pundit Bisram Sieudath, Abdul Jabroj, Jeewan Lutchman, Bissoondath Ramkissoon and Boysie Roy were arrested on October 6, at Chaguanas car park. At their initial court appearance, they were each granted $750 bail.

Ramsaran is charged with inciting a public march without obtaining a permit while the others were charged with participating in the  protest for which no permission was obtained. All have pleaded not guilty. Their defence attorneys said Monday that there were certain breaches of individual rights of the protesters, which could see the matter  taken to the High Court as a constitutional motion.