By Kadijatu Bangura, Daily Scope Reporter
The Independent Procurement Review Panel (IPRP) has mandated the Freetown City Council (FCC) to immediately hand over the Garrison Street Market construction site to the Textiles Dealers Association, citing a breach of procurement law. The tribunal found that the FCC was responsible for an “unjustified delay” in transferring the property, despite a valid lease agreement signed over two years ago.
In a summary judgment, the IPRP ordered the council to provide “full and unencumbered possession” of the site within seven working days. The FCC must comply by the end of business on February 7, 2026.
The conflict arose after the Textiles Dealers Association secured a competitive tender for the market project. Investigations revealed that, although a lease was signed by the Mayor of Freetown in December 2023, the council prevented the association from accessing the site.
The tribunal criticized the FCC, stating, “The Panel finds no reasonable defense for the Council’s failure to fulfill its obligation after completing the procurement process,” and described the council’s actions as “unfair treatment.” The IPRP also warned public institutions that such violations undermine the integrity of Sierra Leone’s procurement system and erode public trust.
Observers view this case as a significant test of the tribunal’s authority to enforce accountability and transparency within local government. The panel emphasized that the FCC’s conduct constituted a fundamental breach of the Public Procurement Act of 2016, as the council admitted it did not hand over the site but offered no lawful justification for the delay.
For further inquiries, contact Daily Scope Newspaper at dailyscopemedia@gmail.com.
