By Saidu Jalloh, Reporter D.S
Dr. Turad Senesie, Minister of Lands, Housing, and Country Planning, has responded to recent social media allegations regarding his involvement in a legal matter. In a public statement, he expressed concern over claims circulating online, purportedly from the Judiciary Media Unit, about a case against him.
“I wish to clarify that I am not aware of any such case involving my person,” Dr. Senesie stated. “As a law-abiding citizen, I find it deeply troubling that a legal action could be initiated and concluded without my knowledge or the opportunity to respond.”
The Minister announced plans to consult with the Solicitor General, the Attorney General, and his legal team to thoroughly investigate the issue. He assured the public that updates would be provided once all relevant facts have been gathered.
Dr. Senesie’s statement follows a landmark ruling by the Supreme Court of Sierra Leone on February 6, 2025, in the case of Theophilus Pratt and Hawanatu Pratt v. Dr. Turad Senesie and Others. The court ruled that private citizens cannot be forcibly removed from their land, reaffirming the protections of private property under Section 21 of Sierra Leone’s 1991 Constitution.
Presiding Judge Hon. Justice Glenna Thompson (JSC) emphasized the importance of the Director of Surveys’ signature on a survey plan as a critical step in confirming that land is not state-owned. The court declared that private property cannot be arbitrarily seized, except under constitutional provisions and lawful procedures.
“The State, or those acting on its behalf, must not, cannot, and should not arbitrarily enter into any private property claiming ownership where the private person has valid deeds supported by a survey plan signed by the Director of Surveys,” Justice Thompson stated.
The court awarded damages for trespass and breach of constitutional rights against Dr. Senesie as the first defendant. Other defendants included the Director of Surveys, Abdul Rahman Sesay, and the Attorney General and Minister of Justice.
This ruling sets a significant precedent for land rights in Sierra Leone, outlining criteria for damages in cases involving breaches of fundamental rights. The Supreme Court panel also included Hon. Justice A. B. Halloway (JSC), Hon. Justice Alusine Sesay (JSC), Hon. Justice Abdulai Bangura (JSC), and Hon. Justice R. S. Fynn (JA).
Dr. Senesie concluded his statement by thanking the public for their understanding and support, reiterating his commitment to upholding the rule of law.
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