By Thaimu Thullah
President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone faces increasing pressure to take decisive action against Lands Minister, Dr. Turad Senesie, whose tenure has been marred by ”allegations of selective dispossession of private lands.” Under the guise of reclaiming state lands, Minister Senesie has been accused of unlawfully seizing properties from Sierra Leoneans, both at home and abroad, raising serious concerns about the integrity of the Ministry of Lands.
Since his appointment, Dr. Senesie’s actions have sparked widespread distrust among citizens regarding the ministry’s operations. Communities such as Angola Town in Goderich, Tokeh Village, No. 2 River, and the Peninsula, have become hotbeds of contention, with numerous complaints emerging from individuals who feel victimized by the ministry’s overreach.
One particularly alarming case is that of Alpha Conteh, a Sierra Leonean residing in New York. Conteh purchased property in Tokeh over a decade ago, following all legal protocols to secure his ownership. Despite this, he has found himself embroiled in a battle against the ministry, which has unlawfully taken possession of his land. This situation underscores a troubling reality: with many Sierra Leoneans living in the diaspora now questioning the security of their investments back home.
The implications of these actions are profound. If President Bio does not intervene promptly, there is a looming risk of unrest. Many of those whose properties have been unjustly seized are prepared to resist this blatant violation of their rights. It is crucial to recognize that a significant number of these individuals pursued legal avenues to acquire their properties, only to find themselves at the mercy of a ministry that seems to prioritize expediency over justice.
The situation calls for immediate attention. It is essential for the government to restore faith in the Ministry of Lands and uphold the rights of its citizens, particularly those abroad, who have invested in their homeland. The potential for chaos looms large if these injustices continue unchecked, and it is imperative that President Bio takes a stand to protect the rights of all Sierra Leoneans. Failure to act could lead to a broader crisis, challenging the very foundations of trust and stability within the nation.