The Chairman of the Islamic Solidarity for Peace and Democracy in Liberia, Mohammed M. J. Massalay, has called on national leaders, religious bodies, and the Liberian public to intervene in what he describes as a troubling and recurring pattern of judicial rulings against Muslim-owned properties.
Addressing journalists at a press conference on Friday, Massalay said the organization could “no longer remain silent” regarding the on-going dispute over a property acquired in 1965 and long used by the Muslim community. The property in question is located on 21st Street, Sinkor, and hosts the Fiamah mosque.
According to him, documentation, including signatures from the original owners, George and Elizabeth Marsh, proves the property was legitimately purchased and later transferred to the Muslim community under the authority of the then Mandingo Governor, Alhaji Nukang Sheri Ruba.
Despite this, the heirs of the late owners are now contesting the ownership, claiming their parents were not the rightful holders of the property. “Both signatures appear clearly on the original deed,” Massalay emphasized, noting that the organization stands ready to present all supporting documents to the public and relevant authorities.
Massalay expressed deep concern over the Supreme Court ruling. He cited past decisions involving a case in Redlight, arguing that these repeated outcomes raise questions about fairness.
“In my lifetime, I have not heard of similar rulings against other religious institutions,” he said. “Why does this keep happening to us as Muslims? This deserves national attention.”
Although the Supreme Court has already ruled in the present matter, Massalay clarified that the Islamic Solidarity is not challenging the judgment; instead, the group seeks peaceful intervention to ensure that justice is applied impartially and that long-established facts are not disregarded.
Massalay appealed to several institutions, including the Liberia Council of Churches, the Liberia Christian Council, the National Muslim Council, and the Office of the President, to help mediate the dispute. He also urged the Legislature, particularly the Office of the Speaker, the President Pro Tempore, as well as the Vice President, to review the matter.
He indicated that the organization has already dispatched formal communication and copies of the deed to multiple lawmakers, including Senator Amara Konneh, Representatives Musa Hassan Bility, Sekou Kenneh, and Muka Kamara, amongst others.
Massalay commended religious leaders and other stakeholders who have attempted to maintain calm and support dialogue. “We want to resolve this matter without conflict, without tension, and without division,” he said.
Reaffirming the organization’s commitment to peace, Massalay urged all parties to allow facts and historical records to guide the resolution of the dispute. “Our request is simple,” he stated. “Let the truth, the documents, and fairness lead the way.”
