Hon. Philip Tetema Tondonch, who previously served as Sierra Leone's Deputy Minister of Works, is currently under investigation for allegations of fraudulent conduct involving a German investor. The controversy centres on a 2022 incident where Hon. Tondonch is accused of engaging in deceptive practices during a land transaction, which has had significant financial repercussions for the investor.
The German investor, aiming to establish a modern electronics warehouse in Sierra Leone to foster local employment, sought Hon. Tondonch's assistance in acquiring a suitable plot. Hon. Tondonch reportedly offered a site on Fisher Lane for $50,000 and requested an immediate $10,000 down payment, which the investor promptly provided in good faith.
However, it later came to light that the land in question was actually owned by a civil servant, casting serious doubts on the legitimacy of the transaction. While Hon. Tondonch acknowledged the debt and expressed a willingness to reimburse the investor, the issue remains unresolved to the investor’s satisfaction. When approached at his office in the Youyi Building, Hon. Tondonch expressed regret over the embarrassment caused by the ongoing dispute and mentioned that he had offered an alternative plot of land to the investor as a means to settle the issue. However, the investor refused this offer, insisting on proper restitution and full accountability for the financial loss incurred.
Hon. Tondonch lamented the public scrutiny and disparagement he has faced due to the unresolved matter, highlighting his discomfort with the situation. Despite his attempts to offer an alternative resolution, the investor remains firm in seeking full compensation.
As the situation continues to unfold, the press remains vigilant in reporting developments. The German investor, whose plans to contribute to Sierra Leone's economic growth have been derailed by the alleged misconduct, continues to seek justice and closure. The case has intensified calls for transparency, accountability, and adherence to legal protocols, raising significant concerns about the integrity of Sierra Leone's governance and its commitment to upholding the rule of law.