P.C. Bengeh Indicted
By Lamin Bangura
In a controversial meeting held at the Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs office in Moyamba District on Monday 3rd November 2025, Town Chief, Augustine Vanboi of Faquinah Chiefdom, explained how Gandonhun land was allegedly sold for 900,000 new Leones to a Chinese company. This decision has sparked significant backlash from community members, who assert that the land rightfully belongs to the local families. Honorable Simon Fefegulah voiced the community’s grievances, highlighting that Gandonhun has faced numerous struggles and societal issues. He explained that Gandonhun in Mende commonly mean a place of gathering.
He expressed dismay at the apparent disconnect between government officials and the local community, suggesting that the leaders have failed to address the concerns of ordinary citizens.
Fefegulah elaborated on the historical significance of the land and its use for the community’s well-being, stressing that it should not have been sold without proper consultation with the people, to whom it rightfully belongs. He mentioned that the local chiefs and authorities had previously advised against selling the land, indicating that there was a strong community consensus against this action.
District Officer, Osman Samura, echoed these sentiments, confirming that several community members, including traditional authorities, are opposed to the sale. He noted that there seems to be a lack of understanding and adherence to customary land rights, as outlined in the Customary Land Rights Act, which requires significant community consultation before land can be sold or allocated.
Janet Mamie, a concerned community member, further articulated the emotional and practical implications of the land sale. She emphasized the vital role this land plays in the community’s cultural and developmental framework, stating that it has been used for family livelihoods, including farming. She pointed out that the local children depend on it for their future, and the sale undermines their rights and opportunities for growth. Amidst the rising tension, civil society representatives, including Gerard, stressed the importance of legal frameworks and proper processes in land dealings. He criticized the rush to sell the land without proper documentation or community involvement, warning that such actions could lead to increased conflict or unrest within the region.
As discussions continue, community leaders are calling for a reevaluation of the sale, urging government officials to consider the long-term implications of their decisions on the community’s integrity and development. There is a strong desire among residents to engage in meaningful dialogue with authorities to reverse the situation and restore their rights to the land. In the wake of these developments, it remains to be seen how the government will respond to the community’s demands, and what steps will be taken to prevent future disputes over land ownership and management in Moyamba District. The emotional weight of this issue continues to resonate with residents, as they stand united in advocating for their ancestral rights and the future of their children.
A letter written to the District Officer, Moyamba District, dated Friday 24th October, 2025, with the Subject Titled: Complaint against P.C. Samuel Hindoveh Bengeh of Fakunya Chiefdom for the sale of chiefdom Land’’.
The letter in question directly indicted the current Paramount Chief, P.C. Hindoveh Bengeh, as the man behind the sale of the land without consulting the land owning families. The letter in question will be published in our next edition as we continue to expose P.C. Bengeh’s cynical activities highlighted in the letter.