Hon. Aaron Aruna Koroma Slams Bio Administration Over Economic Hardships
By Benjamin S Conteh
Hon. Aaron Aruna Koroma, an opposition Member of Parliament representing Tonkolili District, has expressed concern over the economic challenges faced by Sierra Leone under the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) government, led by President Julius Maada Bio.
During a debate on the 2025 national budget in the Well of Parliament on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, Hon. Koroma claimed that inflation under the current administration peaked at 54% before reducing to 22%. However, he noted that commodity prices remain high, leaving many Sierra Leoneans struggling to make ends meet.
Comparing the current economic situation to that of the previous All People’s Congress (APC) administration, Hon. Koroma emphasized that inflation during their tenure was around 15.3%, and the exchange rate for $100 was approximately NLe 775. In contrast, the current exchange rate has surged to about NLe 2,400.
“During austerity, our economy performed better,” he stated, referring to the economic challenges inherited by the APC government.
Hon. Koroma also criticized the 2025 budget projections, pointing out that while the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2023 was at 12.1%, the Ministry of Finance has budgeted GDP growth at only 9.8% for 2025.
Despite his criticisms, the MP commended the Minister of Finance for his transparency and efforts to address the nation’s challenges. “I want to acknowledge his sincerity and his proposal to restore the social welfare programs, including reduced electricity tariffs for the poor,” he said.
He further highlighted the need for economic reforms, including rebasing the economy, which he said could bring significant advantages.
Addressing the minimum wage, Hon. Koroma criticized its inadequacy, arguing that it is insufficient to purchase a bag of rice. He called for amendments to the 2014 Minimum Wage Act to alleviate the suffering of the masses.
On government expenditure, he noted inconsistencies, stating that current expenditure is 22 million leones while capital expenditure is 13 million leones, amounting to 35 billion leones. However, the appropriation bill only accounts for 27 billion leones, which he argued is not reflective of actual government spending.
He also raised concerns about the declining state of the free healthcare program, which he claimed no longer serves the people effectively, with some nurses allegedly exploiting citizens.
In conclusion, Hon. Koroma urged the government to take urgent steps to address the country’s economic challenges and reduce the suffering of Sierra Leoneans.
