Parliament Calls for Timely Budget Release and Accountability
By Musa Paul Feika
During the recent parliamentary approval of six presidential nominees, Members of Parliament both opposition and ruling
called for stronger accountability and timely disbursement of funds to Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) for more effective public service delivery.
Speaking in the Well of Parliament on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, Hon. Aaron Aruna Koroma, Deputy Opposition Leader II representing Tonkolili District, urged newly approved Deputy Minister of Finance, Mrs. Jenneh Jabati, to collaborate effectively with the substantive Minister, Sheku Fantamadi Bangura. He emphasized the importance of timely and full disbursement of approved budgets to MDAs, citing that many institutions often receive less than what Parliament has allocated.
“It doesn’t necessarily mean Sierra Leoneans lack qualifications,” Hon. Koroma stated. “But without timely and adequate funding, MDAs cannot deliver the services our people expect.”
He directly addressed Mrs. Jabati, invoking the saying, “To whom much is given, much is expected,” and urged her to leverage her banking background to reform the Ministry’s financial practices for the betterment of the nation.
On the subject of the Ombudsman’s Office, Hon. Koroma called for a complete revamp, noting that a majority of citizens remain unaware of its existence or functions due to inefficiencies. “That is why other institutions have been stepping in to perform its role,” he remarked.
He also addressed Haja Kadie Johnson, a former SLBS/SLBC media professional now appointed to the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority (SLRSA), urging her to focus on improving the country’s road infrastructure and safety systems.
Adding to the discussion, Opposition Leader Hon. Abdul Kargbo appealed to the government to increase funding for the Office of the Ombudsman. He emphasized that enhanced budgetary support is critical for the office to effectively deliver on its mandate.
Supporting the call, SLPP lawmaker Hon. Umu Pyne encouraged Haja Kadie Johnson to work closely with relevant authorities at SLRSA to reduce the high rate of accidents along major highways leading to the provinces.
She also endorsed Maada Lahai, the newly approved Youth Commissioner, describing him as “the right person in the right place” and encouraged him to continue the impactful work he has been doing.
All six nominees were unanimously approved by both ruling and opposition MPs.
In closing, Speaker of Parliament Dr. Abass Bundu congratulated the appointees and urged them to serve in the best interest of the country
