City Council/Lands Ministry: Who sells land?
About two years ago a vast piece of land belonging to various ethnic groups had been sold to Rev Archibald Cole (in photo) for the construction of a church (New Life Ministry).
Our investigation reveals that the said land belongs to the Mandela community situated at Ross Road. It was originally meant for internally displaced persons who had been driven by the rebels from their original homes.
The land in question was not merely a dwelling place but also meant for developmental purposes such as skills training projects in such areas bread making, brick making, carpentry, etc.
Sources say the property was handed over to Rev Archibald Cole through the influence of former members of his church and the Chief Administrator of the Freetown City Council Mr. Bowenson Philips.
It is interesting to note that because Mandela land was such a productive piece of land, another piece of land along Kissy Road was offered to Rev Archibald Cole so that Mandela community land would remain intact, but sources say the Reverend declined the offer to the detriment of the poor community members.
The reason, sources maintained, was because he is paying four thousand dollars per annum, a land that has been providing million of leones to the community members.
Source also says properties on the land including houses were demolished without any regard to the cost of the structures and the inconvenience this caused the owners.
Until this day, Mandela is being remembered with tears but residents believe Rev. Cole’s repentant miracle is being built on the land of sorrow.
By Mary .I. Kamara
Stay with Sierra Express Media, for your trusted place in news!
© 2011, https:. All rights reserved.
