Opposition Chief Whip Urges Focus on Democratic Reforms to Attract Global Investment

The U.S. government has approved the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Compact, aimed at addressing Sierra Leone’s electricity crisis. However, disbursement of funds is contingent upon the government fulfilling specific tripartite conditions set by the U.S.

In response, the Sierra Leonean government convened an emergency parliamentary session to discuss the compact’s swift implementation. During the debate, Opposition Chief Whip Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara raised concerns that the compact primarily focuses on power transmission and distribution, neglecting energy generation, which he argues is critical for efficient transmission.

Kamara emphasized the government’s failure to prioritize the Bumbuna Phase Two project, which he sees as a more reliable power generation solution than the costly Karpowership initiative that has yet to deliver significant returns.

In a broader critique, Kamara stressed that, “Until we build our democratic credentials, we will not attract world investment,” pointing to ongoing human rights violations, unlawful arrests, and political intimidation as deterrents to foreign investment.

While acknowledging the magnitude of the MCC Compact, he warned the government that failing to adhere to the tripartite recommendations would be a missed opportunity. Kamara also highlighted that despite the opposition’s commitment to national unity, many of its members remain incarcerated.

In closing, he urged the government to fully implement the recommendations to foster peace and stability in Sierra Leone, which in turn would create a favorable environment for international investment.