Press Statement
Call for the Resignation or Suspension of Dr. Denis Moinina Sandy, Minister of Works, Pending Investigation into Allegations of Fraudulent Conduct
We, the undersigned civil society groups in Sierra Leone, express our profound concern over the findings of the Investigating Committee Report submitted by Honourable Justices Glenna Thompson JSC, F.B. Alhadi JA, and Monfred Sesay JA, dated 2nd April 2025 which uncovers serious allegations of fraudulent conduct involving Dr. Denis Moinina Sandy, the Minister of Works and Public Assets. The report, which investigated the issuance of fictitious court orders within the Judiciary of Sierra Leone, has revealed credible evidence of Dr. Sandy’s active participation in a fraudulent scheme concerning a purported “divorce certificate,” with far-reaching implications for the integrity of our judicial system and public trust in governance.
The Committee’s findings establish that Dr. Sandy knowingly relied on a fictitious Decree Absolute to secure a divorce, despite never filing a petition, engaging legal representation, or participating in any legitimate court proceedings. His actions involved engaging an individual, Magnus Coker, who lacks legal credentials, to orchestrate this fraud, bypassing established judicial processes. Dr. Sandy’s testimony was found to be inconsistent and implausible, leading the Committee to deem him an “unimpressive and unreliable witness” who displayed a “cavalier approach and lack of respect for the rule of law.” Most alarmingly, the Committee concluded that Dr. Sandy was an “active participant in this fraudulent act” and recommended his referral to the Anti-Corruption Commission for further investigation.
As Minister of Works, Dr. Sandy occupies a position of significant public trust, tasked with upholding the highest standards of integrity and accountability. His involvement in a scheme that undermines the judiciary—a cornerstone of our democracy—raises serious questions about his fitness to remain in office. The Committee’s report highlights a systemic failing within the judiciary, exacerbated by the actions of individuals like Dr. Sandy, who sought to exploit these weaknesses for personal gain. Such conduct not only erodes public confidence in the judicial system but also sets a dangerous precedent for governance in Sierra Leone.
We, the undersigned civil society groups, therefore call for the immediate resignation of Dr. Denis Moinina Sandy as Minister of Works. Should he fail to resign voluntarily, we urge His Excellency the President of Sierra Leone to exercise his authority to suspend Dr. Sandy from his ministerial position without delay, pending the outcome of investigations by the Anti-Corruption Commission and other relevant authorities. This action is imperative to safeguard the integrity of public office and to demonstrate an unwavering commitment to the rule of law.
The allegations against Dr. Sandy, if proven, constitute a grave breach of public trust and a direct assault on the principles of transparency and accountability that Sierra Leoneans rightfully expect from their leaders. Allowing him to remain in office during this investigation risks further undermining public confidence in the government, particularly at a time when the nation prepares for critical democratic processes. We also echo the Committee’s recommendation for a thorough review of judicial systems to prevent future transgressions and call for swift action against all individuals implicated in this scandal, regardless of their position or influence.
We the undersigned stand united in demanding accountability and justice, and we will continue to monitor this matter closely to ensure that the rule of law prevails.
Dated May 4th, 2025.
Campaign for Good Governance
Citizens Advocacy Network
Citizens’ Barray
Freedom Hub
Institute for Governance Reform
Institute for Legal Research and Advocacy for Justice
The Lawyers’ Society
Read the full report from the Judicial Committee – https://www.sierraeyemagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Judiciary-ReportDocument_uploaded.pdf
