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Sierra Leone’s Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, has acknowledged that rising living costs could influence how citizens assess the Government ahead of the country’s 2028 general elections.
Speaking in a mix of English and Krio, Bah said citizens are “bitterly” complaining about the cost of living and acknowledged that the current economic situation remains a major concern for the population.
The Minister, however, defended the Government’s economic policies, arguing that several ongoing investments are intended to create what he described as “shock absorbers for the future,” while recognising that the present period remains difficult for many citizens.
Bah cited the increase in the national minimum wage as one of the Government’s measures in response to economic pressures. The minimum wage increased from Le800 to Le1,200 per month with effect from April 1, 2026, representing a 50 percent increase.
He also pointed to Government’s agricultural interventions under the Feed Salone agenda, including a fertilizer programme intended to improve agricultural productivity and contribute to food-price stability. Recent Government financing has also targeted climate-resilient agriculture, food security and increased incomes for farmers.
On digital connectivity, Bah acknowledged that challenges remain despite investments and improvements in the telecommunications sector. Government has continued to expand digital infrastructure, while officials have also recognised concerns around affordability and service quality.
The Minister further highlighted democratic and governance reforms as part of the administration’s broader programme of national development. Among the proposed constitutional changes are provisions relating to women’s representation and the electoral system, although aspects of the Constitution of Sierra Leone (Amendment) Bill, 2025 remain subject to legal and political processes.
Bah’s remarks come as Sierra Leone approaches the 2028 general elections, with economic conditions expected to remain an important issue in public and political discussions. The International Monetary Fund has also identified rising political tensions as the elections approach, alongside continuing economic and institutional challenges.
While defending the Government’s long-term investments, Bah acknowledged the immediate economic difficulties confronting citizens, particularly the pressure created by the rising cost of living.
His comments place the Government’s current economic measures and longer-term development investments within the broader challenge of addressing citizens’ immediate concerns ahead of the 2028 elections.