Bio’s Year of Action Faces Scrutiny as MPs Continue Debate on President’s Address
Sia Lucy Kannah President Julius Maada Bio’s declaration of 2026 as a “Year of Action” has come under scrutiny in Parliament, as lawmakers from both the opposition and ruling benches raised concerns over government performance, unfulfilled development promises, and pressing national challenges during debates on the President’s Address.
The Parliament of Sierra Leone convened on Wednesday, 4th November, and Thursday, 5th November 2026, for the second and third days of debate on the address delivered by President Bio during the State Opening of the Fourth Session of the Sixth Parliament.
During the discussions on the Motion of Thanks, lawmakers assessed the administration’s achievements and highlighted concerns surrounding food security, electricity, infrastructure, youth unemployment, education, and other national development priorities.
Opening the second day of debate, Hon. Fatmata Bintu Bockarie (Bonthe District) welcomed the administration’s commitment to making 2026 a “Year of Action”, highlighting key priorities in food security, clean water, and electricity access. However, she stressed the need for tangible improvements in the lives of ordinary citizens and appealed for the construction of the Java-to-Oyahu road to improve local infrastructure.
Raising concerns over the government’s development record, Hon. Abdul Latif Sesay (Port Loko District) argued that government performance should be measured by concrete results rather than promises. He pointed to unfinished development projects in his constituency, including a non-operational fire force facility, deteriorating roads and bridges, high youth unemployment, and poor telecommunications services.
On the other hand, Hon. Engineer Fallah Tengbeh (Kailahun District) defended the administration’s record, citing improvements in fiscal management, digital transformation, and major electricity initiatives, including the 108-megawatt power project and the Mission 300 Energy Compact. He also advocated for the establishment of a National Cyber Resilience Forum.
Other lawmakers used the debate to highlight challenges affecting their constituencies and the country at large.
On food security and the rising cost of living, Hon. Mohamed Shebureh Bangura (Kambia District) questioned the impact of government agricultural policies amid rising food prices and called for the rehabilitation of the Mambolo agricultural facility.
On women’s empowerment, Hon. Rev. Fatmata Sarah Soukenah highlighted achievements under the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act, alongside investments in child protection and basic education.
Education and youth development also featured prominently, with Hon. Mohamed Papa Bangura expressing concern over the 2026 WASSCE outcomes and calling for the prioritisation of the National Stadium’s completion to provide greater opportunities for young athletes.
Meanwhile, Hon. Joseph Williams Lamin (Bo District) expressed support for the Feed Salone initiative, advocating for reduced reliance on imported rice while acknowledging the contributions of international partners, including China.
The debate on the Presidential Address is expected to continue as lawmakers examine the government’s policy direction, legislative priorities, and national budget allocations for the upcoming fiscal year.