SLPP MP Hon. William Lamin denied corruption allegations related to the land dispute between Milton Margai Technical University (MMTU) and New Brookfields Hotel.

In a heated parliamentary session on August 29, 2024, Hon. William Lamin, an SLPP Member of Parliament and Chairman of the Tertiary Education Committee, firmly denied allegations of corruption related to the ongoing land dispute between Milton Margai Technical University (MMTU) and New Brookfields Hotel.

The dispute, which centers on a piece of land that the hotel seeks to lease from the university, has drawn significant attention and sparked controversy within the government.

Addressing his colleagues at Committee Room One in Parliament, Hon. Lamin refuted claims that he had solicited or accepted bribes from university officials in connection with the dispute.

“I have been accused of soliciting money from the university, but I have never collected a penny from any official, nor have I urged anyone to give me money.

I stand for the truth and nothing but the truth,” Lamin declared, emphasizing his commitment to resolving the matter fairly and transparently.

The dispute has escalated following the involvement of the Ministry of Higher and Technical Education and the Ministry of Tourism, which have been accused of interfering in negotiations that were previously progressing between MMTU and New Brookfields Hotel.

Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara, the Chief Whip of the opposition, expressed his frustration with the government’s handling of the situation, criticizing the decision to prioritize the interests of a private institution over a government entity.

Hon. Kamara argued that the land dispute highlights broader issues within the administration of President Bio, pointing to what he described as “bad leadership and decision-making” that favors private interests at the expense of public institutions.

He noted that the land in question had been allocated to MMTU under the Polytechnic Act, and later reaffirmed when the university was upgraded under the University Act of 2022 and 2023.

Kamara also questioned the role of the Minister of Higher and Technical Education, Madam Wurrie, accusing her of supporting the hotel’s interests over those of the university.

He expressed disappointment in her actions and questioned whether she is truly committed to empowering young people in Sierra Leone, as her role mandates.

In response to the ongoing tensions, Hon. Lamin has urged both parties to engage in constructive dialogue and reach an amicable resolution. He has ordered MMTU and New Brookfields Hotel to settle their differences and report back to the parliamentary committee within two weeks. Both entities have reportedly begun negotiations and expressed optimism about reaching a mutual agreement.

As the dispute continues, the parliamentary committee, led by Hon. Lamin, remains focused on ensuring a fair outcome that serves the best interests of the public and maintains the integrity of the university. Lamin’s stance against the corruption allegations underscores his determination to see the matter resolved without bias or improper influence.