The Five-Man Committee representing 252 unpaid beneficiaries of the Productive Social Safety Net and Youth Employment (PSSNYE) Programme in Makeni has called on the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), National Commission for Social Action (NaCSA), and National Youth Commission (NaYCoM) of Sierra Leone to conclude investigations into the unpaid beneficiary payments fairly and without further delay.
In an official statement signed by Committee Leader Abass Kamara, the Committee alleged that the list submitted to the authorities contained 450 names, raising concerns over the process used to determine who should receive payment.
The Committee also questioned what it described as the inconsistent application of requirements relating to attendance records, orientation, applications, and the opening of bank accounts during the payment process.
According to the Committee, beneficiaries who genuinely participated in the programme should not be denied or unnecessarily delayed payment because of administrative challenges or failures beyond their control.
The group further clarified that it has no authority to prevent beneficiaries from exercising their constitutional right to peaceful protest, petition, or seek legal redress, while urging affected beneficiaries to remain calm and pursue lawful channels.
The Committee is also calling for greater transparency and accurate reporting to development partners, including the World Bank, regarding the implementation of the programme and the management of funds intended to support youth development.
It stressed that its position is not intended to undermine the ongoing investigation, but rather to ensure that legitimate beneficiaries are treated fairly and receive payments they believe they are entitled to.
The Committee is therefore urging the relevant authorities to expedite the investigation, clarify the outstanding issues, and provide a transparent resolution for all affected beneficiaries.
