Hon. John Sartty Calls for Pension Reform and Affordable Housing to Uplift Sierra Leoneans

By Benjamin S Conteh 

Honourable John Sartty Kargbo Esq., a distinguished Member of Parliament representing Constituency 111 in the Western Area Rural District, delivered a passionate and compelling address during the 2025 budget debate in the Sierra Leone Parliament. His speech resonated deeply as he urged the government to prioritize the welfare and livelihoods of ordinary citizens, focusing on two critical areas: pension reform and the provision of affordable housing.

In his address, Hon. Kargbo shone a spotlight on the dire financial hardships faced by pensioners across the country. He lamented the inadequacy of current pension payments, which leave many retirees unable to meet their basic needs, despite dedicating decades of their lives to public service. “These individuals,” he asserted, “have devoted their best years to building this nation. Yet, in their twilight years, they are abandoned to struggle in poverty and dependency.”

Hon. Kargbo called on the government to significantly increase pension payments, framing it not only as an economic necessity but as a moral imperative. He argued that a dignified retirement is a fundamental human right and a reflection of the nation’s commitment to honoring those who have contributed to its progress. By improving pensions, Kargbo emphasized, the government could restore hope and security to thousands of retirees while reinforcing public trust in state institutions.

Equally urgent in Hon. Kargbo’s speech was his call to address the housing crisis that continues to plague Sierra Leone. He vividly described the plight of families who live in overcrowded and unsafe conditions, often paying exorbitant rents for substandard housing. He proposed a bold initiative: the allocation of substantial government resources to construct low-cost housing units nationwide.

“Access to affordable housing is not just about shelter; it is about dignity, safety, and opportunity,” Kargbo declared. He argued that solving the housing crisis would not only provide immediate relief to vulnerable families but would also have far reaching economic benefits. A large-scale housing program, he explained, could stimulate the construction industry, create thousands of jobs, and spur local economic growth.

Throughout his speech, Hon. Kargbo stressed that these reforms are not isolated issues but integral to the broader goal of fostering social equity and alleviating poverty. He called on his fellow lawmakers to prioritize policies that directly improve the lives of Sierra Leoneans, especially those who are most vulnerable.

He urged policymakers to view the 2025 budget as a powerful tool for transformative change. “This is not about expenditure,” he argued. “It is about investment investment in our people, in their dignity, and in their future.” He highlighted that meaningful development requires addressing structural inequalities and ensuring that every citizen has access to basic necessities like adequate pensions and safe housing.

In his closing remarks, Hon. Kargbo made a heartfelt appeal to his colleagues in Parliament to unite behind these initiatives. “We must rise above political divisions and focus on what truly matters: the well-being of our people. Let us not just talk about change let us make it happen.”

His stirring call to action has since ignited widespread discussion among stakeholders and citizens, with many praising his bold vision for a more inclusive and compassionate Sierra Leone. As debates continue around the 2025 budget, Hon. Kargbo’s proposals have set a high standard for what the nation can achieve when its leaders prioritize the needs of the people.

This expanded version captures Hon. Kargbo’s vision and highlights his commitment to addressing systemic issues, while the updated headline emphasizes the broader scope of his proposals.