The Ministry of Social Welfare in Sierra Leone has clarified that the ongoing property assessment and verification exercise at Approved School in Freetown is a Government-led process. The exercise aims to document the occupation of 40 acres of State land owned by the Ministry. This clarification was made in response to allegations that money was being collected from residents in connection with the exercise.
According to the Ministry, it has legal documents establishing its ownership of the 40-acre property. The Ministry had previously requested all persons occupying portions of the land to submit documents supporting their occupation or claims. However, no occupant has presented documentation establishing ownership or a legal interest in the property that supersedes the Ministry's title.
The current exercise is intended to establish an accurate record of the land, occupants, structures, and claims on the property. The assessment and verification process is being conducted with the participation of relevant Government institutions and stakeholders. These stakeholders include the Ministry of Lands, the Office of the Attorney-General and Ministry of Justice, and community representatives.
The Ministry stated that the participating officials and stakeholders are supporting the assessment, verification, and documentation process within their respective mandates. Upon completion, the findings will be compiled into a comprehensive report and submitted to Cabinet for consideration and decision in accordance with established Government procedures.
The Ministry categorically stated that it has not authorised the collection of money from residents in connection with the exercise. No resident is required to make any payment to an individual, committee, or group on behalf of the Ministry for the assessment or verification process. The Ministry urged anyone who has been asked to make such a payment to provide evidence.
The Ministry also acknowledged concerns regarding the alleged use of documents bearing the Ministry's name, logo, or other identifying features in connection with the exercise. The circumstances are being verified, and appropriate action will be taken where necessary. The Ministry called on The Drone Newspaper to provide any evidence in its possession supporting the allegations of money collection.
The Ministry maintained that the Government has a responsibility to protect, properly document, and manage State property in accordance with the law and established Government procedures. The Approved School assessment and verification exercise will continue to completion, after which its findings will be presented to Cabinet. The Ministry assured residents and the general public that the exercise will be conducted transparently and accountably.
Key points
- The Ministry of Social Welfare in Sierra Leone has clarified that the ongoing property assessment and verification exercise at Approved School in Freetown is a Government-led process.
- The exercise aims to document the occupation of 40 acres of State land owned by the Ministry.
- The Ministry has not authorised the collection of money from residents in connection with the exercise.
