By Ibrahim S. Bangura
Sierra Leone — Social Welfare Minister Melrose Kaminty is under intense scrutiny following allegations that she defied a court injunction concerning a long-standing land dispute in the Kuntorlor community, Wellington.
The injunction, issued by Justice Hannah Bonnie of the High Court of Sierra Leone on February 4, 2025, prohibits any development or interference on the disputed land located at Teneba Road, Approved School, Wellington. The order was intended to preserve the status quo while ownership claims between Lifeline Nehemiah Projects and Tunde Macathy are resolved.
Despite the court’s directive, sources claim that Minister Kaminty authorized construction activities on the site, sparking outrage among residents and government officials. The move has been widely condemned as a breach of judicial authority and a threat to the rule of law.
The interim injunction restrains all defendants, including their agents and workers, from entering or developing the land. It references a survey plan (LOA 1439) and a Deed of Conveyance registered on December 31, 2020. The order was to last seven days pending an inter-parties hearing on the interlocutory application.
Civil society organizations have voiced concern over the minister’s alleged disregard for the court’s ruling. Human rights activist Senesie Amara described the action as “a blatant disregard for the court’s order,” adding that it reflects “arrogance and contempt for the law.”
The Ministry of Social Welfare has previously asserted that the land in question belongs to the ministry. However, the court’s injunction remains in effect until the legal dispute is resolved.
An official at the Ministry of Social has denied that the minister authorized work at disputed land, adding that the minster is respecter of the law.
The case has reignited debate over the responsibility of government officials to uphold legal processes and respect judicial authority.
This unfolding controversy continues to stir public discourse on governance, accountability, and the sanctity of the rule of law in Sierra Leone.