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Dr. Turad Senesie, Sierra Leone’s Minister of Lands, Housing, and Country Planning, has addressed recent social media reports alleging his involvement in a legal matter.
In a public statement, Dr. Senesie expressed concern over claims circulating online, purportedly from the Judiciary Media Unit, regarding 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 that he would be consulting with the Solicitor General, the Attorney General, and his legal team to investigate the matter thoroughly. He assured the public that he would provide updates once all relevant facts have been gathered.
The statement comes in the wake of 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 protection of private property under Section 21 of Sierra Leone’s 1991 Constitution.
Presiding Judge Hon. Justice Glenna Thompson (JSC) emphasized that the signature of the Director of Surveys on a survey plan is 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 1st Defendant. Other defendants included the Director of Surveys, Abdul Rahman Sesay, and the Attorney General and Minister of Justice.
The ruling has set 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.
What is there to consult with your attorney about? The supreme court is the highest court in the land. Any decision it makes is final. you might not like it but there is nothing one can do.