By Jariatu S. Bangura
Hon.Abdul Kargbo is the leader of the main opposition APC in Parliament
During the ongoing debate on President Bio’s recent address to Parliament, Members of Parliament of the main opposition All People’s Congress (APC), charged the President for what many described as “empty promises” across various sectors.
Opposition MPs accused the ruling government of failing to address critical challenges affecting citizens. They argued that, despite numerous strategic areas needing urgent interventions, President Bio’s administration has not made meaningful progress.
Hon. Ben Alpha Mansaray of Moyamba District criticised the speech as lacking substance, arguing that many of the promised initiatives have not been fulfilled. He expressed particular concern over human capital development, pointing out that only primary and secondary school students seem to benefit.
Hon. Mansaray highlighted the country’s severe shortage of healthcare workers, with only six hundred doctors serving an eight million-strong population. He stressed the need for a clear plan to increase the number of doctors per district to reduce mortality rates and improve patient transfer times.
The lawmaker further criticized the government for neglecting educational subsidies, citing delayed payments and the lack of essential resources for effective oversight. According to him, supervisors lack transportation, and unapproved teachers are on the rise, undermining the quality of education.
Hon. Hawa Conteh from Koinadugu District echoed these concerns, noting the declining standards of public education. She remarked that senior government officials often avoid sending their children to government schools, reflecting a lack of confidence in the quality of education.
Hon. Conteh also urged the government to prioritize feeder road construction, expand safe drinking water access, and direct agricultural support to active farmers rather than politically favored individuals. She described the “Feed Salone” initiative as a “white elephant,” claiming there is no visible progress on the ground.
Hon. Alpha Jalloh of Falaba District criticized the government for failing to improve food security, despite promises to increase the agricultural budget. He emphasized that, despite years of commitment, Sierra Leone continues to import most of its rice.
He called for transparency on employment figures, saying the government should provide actual data instead of vague statements.
Hon. Alusine Bash Kamara of Karene District also criticized the administration’s lack of attention to the ongoing water crisis. He noted that of the 117 sections in Karene, only seven have access to clean water.
He added that President Bio’s failure to mention water in his address was a significant oversight for Karene District and other affected areas.
The opposition MPs called on the government to address these issues with concrete actions rather than repeated promises.
