An independent assessment conducted in the case involving Counsellor Benedict Sannoh and two complainants has uncovered what appears to be chicanery, betrayal, and ingratitude against him. The assessment was conducted following a series of hearings where a committee recommended a six-month suspension against Sannoh for alleged misconduct. However, the independent probe revealed a more detailed account of what transpired.
According to the independent assessment, Cllr. Sannoh was approached by Madam Jallawleh Kollie to help her receive benefits from a group policy held by her late father with John Hancock Mutual Life Insurance Company. The matter dates back to 2002 and was initially investigated by the Ministry of Justice. The probe found that Sannoh had assisted Kollie in her claim.
On July 19, 2024, Madam Kollie built a $160,000 case against Cllr. Sannoh, claiming he had negotiated on their behalf to receive such an amount. However, this claim was contradicted when Kollie involved Cllr. Varnie Sherman, who allegedly promised to give her $50,000 on behalf of some relatives, but she declined. It is unclear if the $160,000 issue was presented before the committee.
A statute of limitation in the law states that if a matter is not brought before the court within three years, it is barred from being heard, especially when those involved are in the country. The independent investigation established that it has been over twenty years since this issue came to the fore. This raises questions about the validity of the case against Sannoh.
The independent probe's findings have significant implications for Cllr. Sannoh's career and reputation. The assessment's results contradict the committee's recommendation for a six-month suspension. It is unclear how the Liberia Bar Association will respond to these new findings.
The case highlights the need for thorough investigations and the importance of considering all evidence before making recommendations. Cllr. Sannoh's situation demonstrates how quickly allegations can damage a person's reputation and career. The independent assessment's findings bring new attention to the case and raise questions about the original investigation.
The FrontPage Africa investigation has established that the matter has been ongoing for over two decades. The statute of limitations and the contradictions in Kollie's claims raise serious doubts about the validity of the case against Cllr. Sannoh. The Liberia Bar Association will likely face pressure to review the case and consider the new evidence.
Key points
- The independent assessment contradicts the committee's recommendation for a six-month suspension.
- The case against Cllr. Sannoh may be barred by the statute of limitations.
- The investigation raises questions about the original investigation and the allegations against Sannoh.
