BASSETERRE, St. Kitts - THE Lawsuit brought against Freedom FM by Leader of Team Unity Dr. Timothy Harris has been adjourned until March next year after a case management hearing this morning (Dec. 4).
With dozens of fans, supporters and employees of the media house patiently waiting in Independence Square to hear the outcome and chanting “Let Freedom Reign”, legal representatives of Freedom FM exited the Court just shy of one hour after entering to deliver the results.
Speaking to media representatives, Freedom FM’s attorney Sylvester Anthony disclosed that the matter was postponed until March as all parties were not served notice of the suit.
“Basically, what happened, Mr. Harris’ lawyer indicated that they were yet to serve the third defendant in this matter who is Charles Jong of Disseminate It. So because he has not been served in either of the matters…and really the case management was premature. So now the matter had been adjourned to March 3 to allow service on the third defendant.”
He added that the Court had also indicated that both sides ought to mediate the matter before returning to Court.
“The Court, in adjourning the matter to March 3, did suggest it was the duty of the lawyers to advise their clients, and she encouraged to consider mediation before the matter comes back in March.
Anthony was however confident that his team could successfully defend the case.
“In relation to the case, I believe we have a very solid argument on whatever matters. I think it is very important to point out that in one of the matters in relation to Freedom FM carrying the broadcast, the facts are Freedom did not carry the broadcast and that what the claimant is persisting in a law suit in which we have shown the Freedom did not carry the broadcast does raise question of the motive of the claimant.”
He also stated that Prime Minister the Rt. Hon. Dr. Denzil Douglas and Government Senator Hon. Nigel Carty were also defendants in the matter.
Freedom FM’s owner, Junie Liburd was ecstatic of the Court’s decision and accused the claimant of trying to stifle democracy.
“We affirm success for Freedom 106.5 and it is because of the support of the people here who you see come out to make sure that democracy stays alive in St. Kitts and Nevis.
“Democracy is under threat! Media houses are under threat! Today might be Freedom, tomorrow might be another radio station. So we want to send a message to the people, we want to send a message to Dr. Timothy Harris and we want to send a message to all those who are taking us to court that this will not happen. The rights of democracy will not be trampled on, because the people say let freedom reign.”
Claimant Harris, who was booed and jeered by Freedom FM’s supporters as he exited the Court, stated all that took place today was a case management hearing and he did not see any reason for all the rejoicing.
“Basically, today was just a case management day. So on that occasion nothing really in terms of the date of the matter is really heard and it is for the Court to set a time for the hearing of the matter. That is because a third person is to be served. So there is nothing to rejoice about.
“The issue is alive, we have gone to court for our justice. I am confident that we will get our justice and those who chose to slander and say all things will have their day in court and will answer to the allegations made.”
Dr. Harris was also questioned about claims that the media house in question was targeted for the suit.
“Let’s not get carried away by that kind of foolishness. You can only bring somebody to court if they are in breach of some law. If someone breaches the law then they have their day to answer in court. I have gone to court to have my good name restored. I have been slandered and all the parties will have their day of determination in court.”
The joyful Freedom FM’s supporters departed Independence Square and headed back to the radio station where chants of “Let Freedom Reign” continued.
