In a development that has sparked public debate, Jaffer Zeghir, CEO of SKM Group, stands accused of orchestrating a media campaign to undermine the credibility of Sierra Leone’s Judiciary. This controversy stems from an ongoing legal dispute between SKM Enterprise and Leonoil, a leading petroleum company, over the handling of a fuel transaction.
The dispute revolves around a 2022 transaction in which SKM Enterprise paid for 430,000 liters of fuel but uplifted only 230,000 liters. The remaining 200,000 liters became subject to a price adjustment following a Government-mandated fuel price hike—a standard industry practice. While Leonoil offered to refund the payment for the uncollected fuel or adjust the balance to reflect the new price, Zeghir refused both options, leading to a legal standoff.
In an initial court ruling, SKM Enterprise was controversially exempted from paying taxes on the uncollected fuel. Leonoil challenged the ruling at the Court of Appeal, arguing that it contravenes Sierra Leone’s tax laws and risks setting a dangerous precedent for tax evasion. While the appeal is ongoing, Zeghir has allegedly launched a campaign to discredit the Judiciary, accusing it of corruption and bias.
These allegations, amplified by certain news outlets and purportedly drawing inspiration from the attack on the Judiciary by the Campaign for Human Rights and Developmental International (CHRDI), have drawn sharp criticism from judicial authorities. Acting Chief Justice Nicholas C. Browne-Marke has categorically rejected the claims, reiterating the Judiciary’s commitment to impartiality and adherence to the principles enshrined in the 1991 Constitution.
Under the leadership of Acting Chief Justice Browne-Marke, the Judiciary has made significant strides in reducing case backlogs, achieving a 90% clearance rate in recent terms. The Acting Chief Justice, who personally adjudicated over 100 cases this year, emphasized the institution’s dedication to upholding the rule of law.
“The Judiciary acknowledges isolated instances of misconduct but remains steadfast in ensuring justice and fairness for all,” Justice Browne-Marke stated. He further noted that certain individuals, discontent with losing undue influence, are now attempting to tarnish the institution’s reputation.
Leonoil, widely recognized for its ethical and transparent business practices, maintains that its actions align with industry standards and legal requirements. The company has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring adherence to government-imposed price adjustments and fair competition in the petroleum sector.
“It is essential to let the appeal process unfold without interference or baseless accusations that could undermine public trust in the judicial system,” a Leonoil representative said.
Adding to the controversy, credible reports suggest that Jaffer Zeghir may be exceeding his legal mandate as a Filling Station dealer. Allegedly, SKM Enterprise has been engaging in large-scale petroleum procurement and supply, a practice reserved for licensed petroleum marketing companies. This contravenes sector regulations, which restrict filling station dealers to retailing fuel to end-users.
Industry stakeholders have urged the Petroleum Regulatory Agency (PRA) to investigate these allegations promptly. Non-compliance with petroleum marketing laws threatens the integrity of the supply chain, distorts the market, and undermines legitimate operators.
The PRA, as the regulatory body overseeing the petroleum industry, is expected to address these allegations decisively. Stakeholders emphasize that swift action is necessary to uphold transparency, accountability, and fair competition in the sector.
“This is a critical moment for the PRA to demonstrate its commitment to enforcing regulations and maintaining order in the petroleum industry,” an industry expert remarked.
As the legal battle continues, calls for objectivity and respect for the rule of law have intensified. Civil society and the media are urged to focus on verified facts and refrain from being used to propagate unfounded allegations.
The Judiciary, led by Acting Chief Justice Browne-Marke, remains resolute in its mission to serve justice impartially. Efforts to discredit this vital institution must not succeed, as its credibility is central to upholding democracy and the rule of law in Sierra Leone.
