Opposition MPs Accuse NaTCA of Collusion, Criticize SLPP on Infrastructure and Economy
Hon. Daniel Fornah, an opposition MP from Tonkolili District, has accused Sierra Leone’s National Telecommunications Authority (NaTCA) of colluding with mobile operators to deny citizens fair access to telecommunications services. Speaking in Parliament on November 6, 2024, during the debate on President Bio’s recent State Opening speech, Fornah alleged that NaTCA’s weak regulatory oversight has allowed mobile companies to avoid providing essential services, thus impacting the livelihoods of Sierra Leoneans.
“This issue is very serious, as it directly affects our people,” Fornah stated. He argued that if the government were more proactive, the 10% import duty imposed on rice an additional burden on citizens could have been covered instead by stricter enforcement of financial obligations on mobile companies. According to Fornah, NaTCA’s failure to enforce the National Telecommunications Authority Act of 2022 has led to the loss of 400 billion Leones, or approximately $21 million, in revenue that should have gone to the Consolidated Revenue Fund (CRF).
Fornah also criticized the inflated pricing structures imposed by mobile operators, claiming these have hindered the expansion of mobile networks across the country. Referring to President Bio’s remarks about telecommunications growth (page 10, paragraph 80 of the address), Fornah argued that the claims do not match the reality on the ground. To address these issues, Fornah expressed gratitude to the Deputy Speaker for forming a six-member committee, chaired by Hon. Boston Munda, to investigate the practices of mobile operators. He urged that NaTCA be included in these hearings to ensure a comprehensive investigation.
Hon. Bash Kamara from Karene District joined the criticism, pointing out that President Bio’s address made no mention of water resources, which he described as an oversight showing a lack of commitment to this essential need. “Water is life,” Kamara asserted, urging the government to prioritize water access for all
