Hon. Jawah Sesay, the Member of Parliament representing Tonkolili District, has passionately appealed to the government for urgent intervention in the construction and rehabilitation of roads, particularly in mining communities like Tonkolili, which play a significant role in Sierra Leone’s socioeconomic development.
During a parliamentary debate on the President’s Address, Hon. Sesay highlighted the dire state of infrastructure in Tonkolili and other similar districts. Despite these regions contributing substantially to the economy, especially through mining, they remain largely neglected in terms of road networks and other essential services.
“In the course of my research, I observed that many of our mining communities, including Tonkolili, are in a deplorable state in terms of road infrastructure,” Hon. Sesay lamented. “It is both ironic and disheartening that regions generating significant revenue for the nation are the same areas left behind when it comes to development.”
He questioned whether there is an unspoken policy to exclude mining areas from national development priorities, adding, “Is it a culture that mining areas should not benefit from development? The people of Tonkolili deserve better.”
Hon. Sesay also noted that Tonkolili District hosts one of the country’s poorest local councils, further hindering progress and service delivery. He urged the Speaker of Parliament and relevant authorities to prioritize road rehabilitation in the district.
“Our people are hardworking and contribute to the nation’s growth through natural resources, yet they face daily struggles due to impassable roads,” he said. “Improving road networks will not only enhance the quality of life but also boost economic activities and national revenue.”
Hon. Sesay’s call intensifies pressure on the government to address long-standing infrastructure gaps across rural and mining regions that have been marginalized despite their vital role in the country’s economic engine.
In a powerful speech during the debate on the Motion of Thanks to President Julius Maada Bio’s address, Acting Leader of Government Business, Hon. Bashiru Silikie, asserted that the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) is the only political party capable of delivering sustainable progress and good governance for Sierra Leone.
Hon. Silikie, a staunch nationalist, used the platform to reflect on the nation’s political history and compare the performances of the two major political parties—SLPP and the All People’s Congress (APC). He argued that the APC lacks the vision and experience needed to drive the country forward.
“The SLPP is the only party that has consistently demonstrated a commitment to the development and transformation of this country,” Hon. Silikie said. “While President Kabbah laid the foundation for modern Sierra Leone, it was sadly undermined by the APC under former President Ernest Bai Koroma.”
He criticized the APC’s governance, particularly in the mining sector, accusing the former administration of entering into poorly negotiated mining contracts that resulted in the closure of several key operations and contributed to economic stagnation.
Hon. Silikie praised President Julius Maada Bio for his visionary leadership, especially in the education sector. He described President Bio as “a parent” who understands the importance of investing in the nation’s human capital. He emphasized that the Free Quality Education program is laying a solid foundation for the future of Sierra Leone.
“Education under President Bio is not just free, but transformational,” Hon. Silikie stated. “This government has aligned the national curriculum with global trends to ensure our children are prepared for the demands of the 21st-century job market.”
He also noted improvements in energy access and the government’s efforts to stabilize the economy despite global challenges, contrasting it with the inflation and currency depreciation under the APC’s tenure.
On national dialogue, Hon. Silikie highlighted President Bio’s commitment to inclusive governance and criticized the opposition for misinterpreting calls for dialogue, instead opting for “propaganda and disruptive demonstrations.”
In response to critiques of the health sector, he defended the SLPP government, stating that the administration did not inherit a strong healthcare system from the APC. He called for greater accountability and stronger measures to address any lapses in the system.
Addressing the Tomabum Rice Project, he clarified that it is part of a long-term agricultural development strategy aimed at achieving food self-sufficiency. He highlighted the fact that under the APC, Sierra Leone was ranked as the third hungriest country in the world by the Global Hunger Index, while the current government is taking steps to improve food security and restore the dignity of the people.
Hon. Komba Quee, one of the youngest and most dynamic voices in the Sierra Leone Parliament, has praised President Julius Maada Bio for his leadership and commitment to economic stability and progressive reforms.
Representing Kono District, Hon. Quee highlighted the significant reduction in inflation to single digits, an economic achievement he attributes to effective fiscal management and sound economic policies. He commended the government for its commitment to transparency and fairness in trade, particularly in sectors like rice and fuel importation, where monopolies have been discouraged to ensure broader access and price stability.
“The gains we are witnessing today are the result of prudent leadership and forward-thinking governance,” Hon. Quee stated. “This administration is not perfect, but it is certainly progressive and responsive to the needs of ordinary Sierra Leoneans.”
He contrasted the current government’s performance with past administrations, which he criticized for inefficiency and poor governance. Hon. Quee called on fellow parliamentarians and citizens to recognize the progress made under the Bio administration and work together to build on it.
Hon. Quee’s remarks resonated with many in the chamber, reinforcing his position as a rising political figure and a passionate advocate for development and accountability. His endorsement of the government’s direction, coupled with his call for national unity, highlights his commitment to a brighter future for Sierra Leone.
