In a recent press release, the Academic Staff Association of the College of Medicine & Allied Health Sciences (COMAHS) at the University of Sierra Leone (USL) has addressed concerns regarding the appointment of an Acting Vice Chancellor and Principal by the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education (MTHE). The association convened for an emergency meeting on January 29th, 2024, to deliberate on issues pertaining to the leadership of the University of Sierra Leone.

Outlined in the release are six resolutions that reflect the stance of ASA-COMAHS on this matter:

1. **Observation of Legal Provisions:** The Academic Staff Association has keenly observed the developments surrounding the appointment of an Acting Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Sierra Leone, expressing concern that the appointment occurred outside the provisions stipulated in the Universities Act of 2021 by the Ministry of Tertiary and Higher Education.

2. **Commendation of the Court's Decision:** ASA-COMAHS applauds the decision of the University of Sierra Leone's Court for upholding the rule of law and rejecting the appointment made by the Ministry of Technical and Higher Education. This emphasizes the association's commitment to legal processes within academic institutions.

3. **Recognition of Deputy Vice-Chancellor:** The association welcomes and congratulates the ratification and appointment of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor-COMAHS as Pro Vice-Chancellor of the University of Sierra Leone, acknowledging his role in the leadership structure.

4. **Disapproval of Attempts to Undermine the Rule of Law:** ASA-COMAHS expresses disapproval of various attempts by statutory institutions involved in the matter to undermine the decision of the University of Sierra Leone's Court and the rule of law within academic institutions.

5. **Strong Condemnation and Advice:** The association strongly condemns these attempts and advises all institutions involved in the resolution of the matter to uphold the provisions outlined for the office of the Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University, as prescribed in the Universities Act of 2021.

6. **Declaration of Resistance:** ASA-COMAHS asserts that its members will vehemently resist any decision made outside the provisions of the Universities Act of 2021 regarding this matter, signaling their commitment to upholding legal and procedural norms.

This comprehensive press release reflects the commitment of ASA-COMAHS to the principles of legality, due process, and the proper governance of academic institutions. As the situation evolves, Sierraloaded remains committed to providing updates on this matter and other significant developments within Sierra Leone.