The Director of Communication at State House, Myk Berewa has responded to criticism of his post about the government’s plans to construct the Lungi Bridge, build a new airport terminal, and create 5,000 jobs annually.

Responding to concerns that these initiatives are politically motivated, Berewa maintained that the government’s efforts go beyond politics and are focused on long-term national development.

In a recent post, Berewa said, “Yes, it’s exactly an ambitious project from the government about the Lungi Bridge. It’s a huge project that has never happened in Sierra Leone.” He admitted that the project has faced setbacks, including the impact of COVID-19, but stressed that it’s not something the government can do alone.

“The government doesn’t even have that much money, which is why you see the President traveling so much, engaging with huge partners,” Berewa explained. He said that to make these kinds of projects happen, the government needs to partner with other groups, like banks and businesses, who can help fund the work.

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He also pointed out that such projects require partnerships with private companies using models like the Built Operate Transfer (BOT), where the private sector manages the project for several years before transferring it to the government.

Berewa also addressed the criticism about the Lungi Airport terminal, saying that while some people complain about taxes, the government has kept its promise to get the project done. “We did partner with people,” he added.

When asked about the government’s claim of creating 5,000 jobs, Berewa pushed back, saying it’s just the start. He asked, “Do you know how many jobs the Lungi Airport has already created? How many jobs came from the bridges, the roads, the police force, teachers, soldiers, and prison officers?” He pointed out that every year, the government continues to create jobs, adding, “When the government talks about 5,000 jobs, we’re doing more than that.”

Berewa also mentioned that the SLPP doesn’t often talk about their achievements, saying, “This is the thing about us SLPP, we don’t talk about things we do.”