By Shadrach Azsiz Kamara
The Member of Parliament representing Bombali District on the ticket of the main opposition All People’s Congress (APC), Hon. Ibrahim Barrie, has questioned the economic gains highlighted by President Julius Maada Bio in his State Opening of Parliament address, arguing that the improvements reported by government are yet to translate into better living conditions for ordinary Sierra Leoneans.
Hon. Barrie made these remarks while contributing to the parliamentary debate on the President’s address, where he identified the economy, fiscal discipline, the rising cost of living, fuel management, the Feed Salone agenda, education and the drug crisis as key areas requiring urgent attention.
Describing the debate as a moment of national accountability, the APC lawmaker assured the Speaker and the House that the opposition would fulfill its constitutional responsibility by presenting alternative policies, participating fully in parliamentary proceedings and offering constructive solutions.
Referring to paragraphs 6 and 28 to 38 of the President’s address, particularly paragraphs 28, 31, 33 and 37, Hon. Barrie acknowledged the economic gains outlined by the government but questioned whether those achievements were reflected in the daily experiences of citizens.
He cited the difference between salary increases and the rising cost of living, arguing that an increase in nominal wages does not necessarily improve purchasing power when the prices of essential commodities continue to rise.
The APC MP also questioned how government borrowing in 2025 and 2026 was allocated, particularly the proportion directed towards recurrent expenditure rather than productive investment. He called for evidence demonstrating how reported macroeconomic improvements were translating into reduced household expenses.
On fuel prices, Hon. Barrie expressed concern that Sierra Leoneans were paying more for petroleum products than consumers in neighbouring Guinea and Liberia, despite all three countries being exposed to global economic shocks.
He questioned whether the disparity was caused by policy priorities, fuel pricing arrangements or other structural challenges, suggesting that Sierra Leone could learn from countries such as Ghana and Kenya, which have established economic coordination mechanisms to address fuel-related challenges.
Turning to the Feed Salone agenda, he called for independent verification of agricultural production and self-sufficiency figures, as well as information on the cost of locally produced rice and other essential commodities.
On education, he expressed concern over teachers’ welfare, arguing that their dissatisfaction could undermine the government’s Free Quality Education programme. He also demanded accountability regarding malpractice investigations and sanctions within the education sector.
Addressing the drug crisis, Hon. Barrie questioned the availability of domestic prevention, treatment and rehabilitation programmes, asking how many affected individuals had completed rehabilitation and received follow-up support.
He further raised concerns about the absence of government-funded electricity in Makeni, the regional headquarters of the Northern Province, describing electricity as an essential requirement for development.
He concluded by calling for stronger accountability, evidence-based policymaking and practical interventions to address the challenges affecting ordinary citizens.
