Freetown, Sierra Leone – The Minister of Lands, Housing and Country Planning, Dr. Turad Senesie, has responded to a recent court verdict involving his office, expressing respect for the judicial process while clarifying his position on the matter.
Speaking on the issue, Dr. Senesie stated, “A few days ago, my attention was drawn to a media publication regarding a court verdict in a matter brought against me. I want to thank the court for upholding the rule of law and for taking steps to address land conflicts in Sierra Leone.”
The Minister emphasized that his role is primarily at the policy level and that decisions on land allocation are made based on recommendations from professionals and departmental heads.
“The allocation of available lands to citizens, agencies, or investors is done when professionals present a layout to the Minister,” he explained.
Dr. Senesie also highlighted the challenges posed by land grabbing and document falsification, which he described as a persistent issue affecting the ministry’s operations.
“Fighting these land-grabbing cartels has been challenging but not insurmountable,” he said, adding that his administration has taken action against staff members and conspirators involved in illegal land transactions.
Addressing the court case specifically, the Minister asserted that he was neither informed nor served with a summons to attend proceedings.
“The matter brought against me as a person was not to my knowledge, and I was never served or summoned to attend hearings,” he clarified.
He noted that the case was one of several inherited from past administrations due to the actions of incompetent staff before his tenure.
“Some of these wrongful actions included converting state lands into private lands for obscure reasons. We have taken actions against such staff and will continue to do so,” he stated.
Dr. Senesie acknowledged the court’s verdict and pointed out that the Solicitor General’s Office, which represents government ministries in legal matters, had been informed but failed to make the necessary representation.
“A default judgment was ultimately reached, and while this is regrettable, I respect the court’s proceedings and remain committed to the rule of law,” he said.
Looking ahead, the Minister announced his intention to seek a judicial review of the verdict.
“In the coming days, I will be consulting with the Attorney General’s Office and the Chief Justice to request a judicial review on this matter, with the utmost respect for the rule of law,” he affirmed.
He also reassured the public of his commitment to protecting state land, citing ongoing efforts to reclaim judiciary-owned properties from land grabbers in Bellair Park, York, Waterloo, and other areas.
Dr. Senesie concluded by expressing gratitude to the public for their support.
“I want to thank members of the public, loved ones, well-wishers, and friends at home and abroad whose concerns have reassured me that the little things we do are being appreciated. I am grateful to you all,” he said.
The Minister reaffirmed his respect for state institutions and his dedication to ensuring that land resources are managed transparently and lawfully.
