Works Ministry creates tensions
In a detailed and compelling letter dated 4th April 2024, prominent lawyer Elvis T. Enoh, Esq., has addressed the Minister of Works, Dr. Denis Sandy, regarding a contentious dispute over the right-of-way along the Hillside Bye-Pass Road/Fatarahman Street junction in Freetown. The letter, titled “RE: DISPUTE ON THE RIGHT-OF-WAY ALONG HILLSIDE BYE-PASS ROAD/FATARAHMAN STREET JUNCTION, FREETOWN,” sheds light on the ongoing conflict between Mr. Ahmed Khalid Kamara, represented by Lawyer. Enoh, and Pa Mustapha Dumbuya.
As the legal representative of Mr. Ahmed Khalid Kamara, Elvis T. Enoh, Esq, outlined the sequence of events leading to the current crisis involving the disputed right-of-way: highlighting that the matter had escalated to the extent of drawing the attention of the Ross Road Police and the Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA), before being brought to the Ministry of Works for resolution.
Elvis T. Enoh, Esq, emphasized the need for a peaceful and fair resolution of the dispute, pointing out specific modalities that should be considered to avoid further conflicts. One key argument presented in the letter was that all lands along the Hillside Bye-Pass Road were compensated for during the road construction, making them properties of the SLRA rather than state land. Therefore, any unused portions of the land after construction, constitute SLRA’s right-of-way.
Furthermore, the letter highlighted that the land in dispute was an existing access road before the construction of the Hillside Bye-Pass Road, and Mr. Kamara’s access to his property and other occupants beyond him depended on this right-of-way. Despite Mr. Kamara’s efforts to seek approval from the SLRA for the use of the right-of-way, conflicts arose when Pa Mustapha Dumbuya and his associates claimed ownership and began construction on the disputed land.
Of significant concern to Elvis T. Enoh, Esq, was the perceived bias demonstrated by Engineer Kosia, the Chairman overseeing the investigation at the Ministry of Works. The letter outlined various instances where Engineer Kosia allegedly favored the opposing party, failed to involve the SLRA in crucial discussions, and withheld pertinent information from Mr. Kamara’s legal team. The lack of transparency and fairness in the investigation process prompted Mr. Enoh to express skepticism about the credibility of the Chairman and his ability to handle the matter justly.
In response to the actions and conduct of Engineer Kosia, Elvis T. Enoh, Esq, communicated Mr. Kamara’s decision to decline any further engagement with the Chairman on the matter, and hinted at exploring alternative courses of action to address the dispute.
The comprehensive letter to the Minister of Works represents a significant step in advocating for transparency, fairness, and adherence to due process in resolving the contentious right-of-way issue in Freetown. Elvis T. Enoh, Esq’s unwavering commitment to upholding his client’s rights and seeking a just resolution underscores the importance of legal representation in safeguarding individuals’ interests amidst complex disputes. The outcome of the Minister’s response and subsequent actions taken will be closely monitored, as stakeholders await a resolution to the long-standing conflict over the right-of-way in Freetown.