Lifeline Nehemiah Projects (LNP) is a local non-governmental organization dedicated to serving Sierra Leone since 1996. LNP now works across eight districts in both urban and rural communities to identify and address the challenges they face. Lifeline and the Ministry of Social Welfare (MoSW) have enjoyed a productive working relationship for over 25 years. LNP values this partnership, which has positively impacted thousands of vulnerable people. However, the leadership of LNP strongly condemns the actions of the Ministry and the police in recent months.
LNP in a statement has clarified several misleading statements in the public notice released by the Ministry of Social Welfare regarding the 1st December meeting organized by the UNDP Resident Representative. This meeting brought together Lifeline Nehemiah Projects, the Kuntorloh community (victims), the MoSW, the Kissy Police Division, and representatives of persons with disabilities (PWDs), following LNP’s complaint of numerous human rights violations including torture, indiscriminate firing of teargas, unlawful arrests, and the looting of Lifeline educational and building materials carried out by security personnel against peaceful citizens. Victims included LNP staff, beneficiaries, the family of the Executive Director Rev. Prince Tommy Williams, and members of the Kuntorloh community.
In the Ministry’s public notice dated Wednesday, 3rd December 2025, no mention was made of LNP’s contributions during the meeting, including LNP’s expression of deep disappointment and concern over the Ministry’s continued actions, which undermine peace, genuine development, human rights, and respect for the rule of law. The Ministry also made unfounded accusations claiming that LNP is not the rightful owner of the disputed land but merely tenants an assertion LNP categorically rejects.
It is important to note that the matter is currently before the High Court of Sierra Leone. Despite provocation and repeated attacks by the police and the Ministry, LNP remains law-abiding and committed to due process and the rule of law.
According to UNDP, the purpose of the engagement was to gather first-hand information regarding the dispute between the Ministry of Social Welfare and Lifeline Nehemiah Projects over the Lifeline playing field and recreational space. This facility, used by 31 schools, is currently under a court injunction prohibiting construction. Despite this, the Ministry forcibly occupied the land and continues construction as part of a $1 million PWD project funded by the Government of India in partnership with UNDP. Concerns regarding associated human rights abuses linked to the police and the Ministry were also raised.
Key stakeholders present included: UNDP Resident Representative, Mr. Fredrick Hans Ampiah, Minister of Social Welfare, Mrs. Melrose Karminty, Executive Director of Lifeline Nehemiah Projects, Rev. Prince Tommy Williams, Local Unit Commander, Kissy Police Division, ASP Eric Murana Kamara, selected community representatives (primarily from the Approved School community, excluding victims of the human rights violations), PWD group representatives, and other observers and community members.
Key observations from the meeting included: LNP and the Kuntorloh community both primary victims were excluded from planning the meeting, raising concerns of bias. The Minister’s threatening remarks and posture suggested a predetermined stance rather than a willingness for dialogue. The LUC, ASP Eric Murana Kamara, denied any wrongdoing despite eyewitness accounts and documented evidence. Community leaders expressed fear; notably, Chief Sesay II stated, “I will not say a word here more, as my life is under serious threat by the police,” indicating ongoing intimidation and unresolved human rights concerns. Persistent misinformation continues to suggest that LNP is against development or is instigating conflict, despite the organization’s long-standing work in youth empowerment, support for women and girls, and advocacy for PWDs.
In conclusion, LNP’s assessment was that the meeting was stage-managed by the Ministry of Social Welfare. Key Kuntorloh community stakeholders were ignored or prevented from speaking. The platform intended for LNP and the Kuntorloh community to share their experiences and positions was restricted. As a result, the human rights concerns remain unresolved, and the LNP case before the court is still ongoing.
LNP recommended the following: An immediate independent investigation into all allegations of human rights abuses and police misconduct. Respect for the ongoing court processes, including a halt to all construction until a ruling on ownership and the injunction is delivered. Inclusive stakeholder engagement, ensuring full participation of LNP and the Kuntorloh community. Protection for community leaders, particularly those who have reported threats. Transparent project implementation by MoSW and UNDP, ensuring accountability in donor-funded initiatives. Return of all seized buildings and educational materials belonging to LNP. Support for victims, including medical, psychosocial, and legal assistance.
Lifeline Nehemiah Projects remains committed to transparency, accountability, and adherence to due process as it works toward a peaceful resolution of this matter and continues its service to the nation.
