By VOS Writer
In a fiery address during a recent townhall meeting in Freetown, His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio delivered a stern rebuke to Members of Parliament and members of the judiciary, accusing them of involvement in the unauthorized sale of state-owned land.
President Bio did not mince words as he condemned the alleged actions, which he described as a “betrayal of public trust.” He expressed deep concern about the increasing incidents of land grabbing by individuals in positions of authority, warning that such practices threaten the integrity of public institutions.
“I have great respect for the integrity of our judges,” President Bio stated, “but I will not sit by and allow anyone—regardless of their title or position—to sell government land for their selfish interests.”
While reaffirming his respect for the independence of the judiciary, the President emphasized that recent reports have implicated certain judges and parliamentarians in questionable land transactions. He vowed to call them to order, insisting that no one is above the law.
“This government will not tolerate the misuse of state assets for personal gain,” he added.
As part of his administration’s response to the issue, President Bio announced plans to engage directly with local authorities, including community headmen, to uncover and address illegal land sales at the grassroots level.
“I will be engaging the local authorities directly,” he said. “They are often the first to know when these illegal transactions are taking place. We must work together to protect what belongs to the people.”
President Bio concluded by reaffirming his government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and the protection of national assets, promising that those found guilty of such misconduct will face the full force of the law.
