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The Chief Executive Officer of Campaign for Human Rights and Development International (CHRDI), Abdul M. Fatoma, has expressed concerns over what the outcome of the ongoing treason trial stemming from the November 26th, 2023 attempted failed coup could have a detrimental impact on Sierra Leone’s economy.
According to Fatorma, it’s almost six months after the general elections, and the delay in unveiling the country’s Mid-Term Development Plan adds uncertainty to the economic outlook.
Fatorma highlighted the November 26th, 2023 incident as a significant spoiler that led to the Court Martial and treason trials. He said while awaiting the Mid-Term Development Plan, crucial for achieving the ‘BIG FIVE’ initiative, investors, both local and foreign, are hesitant to invest in Sierra Leone, as the ongoing trials are creating a sense of instability, and investors are closely monitoring the situation before committing their funds.
Fatorma emphasized the need for the government to address the issue of taxation, advocating for a drastic reduction in taxes on food items. He believes this will empower the middle class and ensure affordable access to food, especially considering the current economic challenges that do not favour the masses.
Referring to the ECOWAS/Commonwealth vcommunique signed by the government and the main opposition All People’s Congress Party, Fatorma expressed disappointment that the mandated Committee, set to address issues such as Electoral, Judicial, and Civil Service reforms, has not made any visible progress since its expected commencement on December 13th, 2023. He sees these reforms as crucial for improving electoral and judicial institutions before the 2028 elections.
Fatorma further speaks on the credibility of the June 24th elections, pointed out that entities like the National Elections Watch (NEW), Carter Foundation, and European Union Election Observers, which raised concerns about credibility issues, have not provided tangible evidence of election malpractice to the public. This lack of transparency negatively affects Sierra Leone’s democratic credentials and has led to a reset on MCC grants.
With donor partners confused about where to focus their support, Fatorma urged the government to prioritize the key ECOWAS/Commonwealth Communique recommendations. By addressing these recommendations, Sierra Leone can rebuild donor confidence and pave the way for economic transformation.
It’s sad to hear Mr.Fatoma to asked the international communities like EU,Carter foundation,NEW to provide evidence of electoral fraud committed by ECSL.Why would Fatoma asked the ECSL to produce the disaggregated results requested by these international partners,and the main opposition party as they have the mandate to release these results to the public.
YES uncertainty has now become a norm in our society since those charged with the the responsibility to make sure things are working for the good of the people have now turned their backs on the truth.
Human rights, so you are more concerned with the economic impact than the Human lives lost? Don’t swallow if you haven’t chewed .
What Fatoma is trying to say
Fatoma den all nr hypocrite to the people of this country , him as a human rights activist is now talking about economy ,instead of him talking about the human rights violation that have been and continue to happen in Sierra Leone , shame on you Fatoma and all other so call evil societies in this country