By: Joseph Momoh, Reporter D.S.
State Counsel Yusif Issac Sesay has defended the government’s acquisition of land at Black Johnson for the construction of a Fish Harbor by a Chinese firm, asserting that the process adhered to legal requirements.
In his statement, Sesay emphasized that the acquisition complied with Section 21 of the Constitution of Sierra Leone and Section 3, subsection 1 of Cap 116 of the laws governing compulsory land acquisitions. His remarks come amid increasing scrutiny regarding land acquisition practices in the country.
“The government is committed to following due process in all land dealings, ensuring that legal frameworks are respected,” Sesay stated.
However, concerns have arisen regarding other land acquisitions, particularly the situation involving Kasafoni Land in the Tonkolili District, where the Sierra Leone Mines and Minerals Development Corporation (SLMMDC) is involved. Renowned journalist Thomas Dixon questioned whether similar legal protocols were observed in this case. “If such measures were taken for Black Johnson, why was the same not done for Kasafoni Land in Tonkolili District by SLMMDC?” he asked.
Dixon also raised concerns about the Statutory Instrument that established the SLMMDC, questioning its constitutional validity. “If the Statutory Instrument that created SLMMDC violates the Constitution of Sierra Leone, is that instrument of any effect?” he queried.
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