The Chairperson of Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) victims’ group, Ebrima Sagnia, took a swipe at Indian authorities, saying they don’t respect victims’ families.
He made this remark on Friday as their ongoing case at the Banjul High Court was adjourned for continuation.
Up to 19 families have filed a lawsuit against Gambia government, the Ministry of Health, Maiden Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Atlantic Pharmaceuticals and Medicines Control Agency (MCA). Over 70 babies have died of AKI in 2022 after taking India-made cough syrups. A Presidential directive ordered a door-to-door campaign to remove cough syrups linked to the death of babies.
Since the beginning of the case, Maiden Pharmaceuticals Ltd and Indian authorities have failed to make an appearance in court despite the fact that the lawsuit was advertised on Times of India.
“There must be mutual respect. When they are summoned, they should imperatively appear in court,” he told JollofNews shortly after stepping out of the court-room.
As the lawsuit was adjourned three times, Sagnia urged the authorities to take the case seriously and work for things to expedite.
The writ of sommons seen by JollofNews indicates that the victims are claiming 10 Million dalasi for each baby. This prompted the State to seek an out-of-court settlement.
While welcoming government move, Sagnia re-echoed what their Counsel Yassin Senghore said in court.
“The court case will go on while we explore ways to find an out-of-court settlement,” he added.
The case will resume on January 31st, 2024.
