APC MP Labels Sierra Leone’s Economy a “Kush Economy,” Criticizes Government Policies

Hon. Salieu Osman Sesay, Member of Parliament for Bombali District under the All People’s Congress (APC), has raised strong concerns about Sierra Leone’s economic direction, labeling it a “Kush economy.”

Speaking during the Appropriation Act 2025 debate on November 21, 2024, he described current policies as a “slow-acting poison” harming the nation’s development prospects. He urged the government to prioritize practical solutions over what he called “empty promises” and vague policies to address Sierra Leone’s economic challenges.

Highlighting the insufficient funding for key Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), Sesay emphasized their importance in driving the nation’s economy. He questioned the Ministry of Finance’s funding benchmarks, noting that smaller MDAs, such as the Sierra Leone Agricultural Research Institute (SLARI) and the Seed Fertilizer Agency, play crucial roles in food security but are consistently underfunded. He called for a reallocation of resources to support these vital sectors.

Sesay also criticized the removal of the social tariff by the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA), which now charges all consumers equally, regardless of income. He argued that this decision has exacerbated economic hardships, as many citizens are unable to afford the higher electricity rates.

Turning to infrastructure, Sesay expressed disappointment over the lack of progress in the Northern Province, particularly in road development. He urged the government to prioritize linking Makeni’s regional referral hospital to critical road networks.

On the budget, Sesay expressed frustration with the allocation for agriculture, which he described as inadequate for such a key sector. He condemned the reliance on unpredictable donor funding and compared the current administration unfavorably to its predecessor, citing rising inflation and stagnant living standards for ordinary Sierra Leoneans.