By Kadiatu Sankoh
The Consortium of Civil Society Organizations Nationwide has strongly condemned what it describes as a unilateral and unprocedural decision by the Chancellor of Milton Margai Technical University to suspend the Vice Chancellor and Principal (VC&P).
In a statement issued on April 11, 2026, the Consortium expressed “grave concern and unequivocal condemnation” over the interim suspension announced in a letter dated April 8, 2026, signed by Engineer M.A. Jalloh, Chancellor of the University.
According to the Consortium, the Chancellor’s action is in clear violation of due process and institutional governance, as outlined in the Universities Act 2021. The statement emphasized that the role of the Chancellor is limited to chairing University Court meetings and presiding over convocation ceremonies for the award of degrees and certificates.
The Consortium further noted that the decision undermines resolutions reached during a University Court meeting held on March 26, 2026. During that meeting, members agreed on three key resolutions, including the establishment of a subcommittee to investigate issues relating to former staff.
The subcommittee, as agreed, was mandated to report its findings to the Executive Committee of the Court, which would then review and approve recommendations before implementation by the University administration.
Importantly, the Consortium highlighted that the Court did not mandate the Vice Chancellor and Principal to step aside, noting that the Terms of Reference (ToR) of the previous committee did not include any investigation into the office of the VC&P.
“It is important to note that members of the University Court had expressed reservations regarding such unilateral action,” the statement read. “Instead, they resolved to establish an independent committee tasked with thoroughly examining the matter and providing informed recommendations, which would include a response from the Vice Chancellor and Principal.”
Describing the Chancellor’s letter as “irregular and illegitimate,” the Consortium stated that it does not recognize the validity of the action and called for strict adherence to lawful and transparent procedures in handling administrative matters within the University.
The group also raised concerns about growing dissatisfaction within the academic community, noting that the Staff Association and other members of the University have criticized the decision as “dictatorial” and lacking broad consultation or respect for established governance structures.
The statement further recalled a declaration made during the first term of His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, emphasizing that universities must remain apolitical and free from political interference.
“This principle must be upheld to preserve the integrity, autonomy, and credibility of higher education institutions,” the Consortium stressed.
In light of these developments, the Consortium has called on the President to intervene and ensure that all relevant authorities adhere strictly to due process, uphold institutional integrity, and guarantee fairness in resolving the matter.
The Consortium reaffirmed its commitment to promoting accountability, transparency, and the rule of law across all public institutions in Sierra Leone.