An opposition politician has criticized the Sierra Leonean government’s recent decision to create two new districts, arguing the move is a politically motivated diversion from the country’s economic crisis.

Joseph Fitzgerald Kamara, a former Minister of Justice and flagbearer aspirant for the opposition All People’s Congress (APC) in the 2028 elections, released a statement and saturday  abeling the redistricting as a “reckless diversion” from the nation’s severe economic challenges.

Last week, The Minister of Local Government and Community Affairs disclosed at the Ministry of Information and Civic Education weekly press conference that two new districts, Kpanguma and Bandajuma, will be created, with Freetown gaining two administrative councils and the Western Rural three, to enhance effective governance and development in the country.

Kamara’s statement highlighted the country’s high inflation, rising cost of living, and widespread unemployment. He claimed the government’s focus on redrawing administrative boundaries is a sign of “misplaced priorities” that will only worsen the financial situation.

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“This move bloats the bureaucracy, creating unnecessary offices and salaries, while the treasury struggles to meet existing obligations,” Kamara said, calling the decision “economic vandalism.”

He further questioned how the government plans to fund the new districts, which will require significant infrastructure and social services, when it is already struggling to maintain existing ones.

Kamara concluded by stating the redistricting is “not development” but rather a “betrayal” of the Sierra Leonean people, urging the nation to demand governance that prioritizes its citizens over political interests.