Deputy Opposition Leader in Parliament, Honorable Daniel Brima Koroma, has called on the Speaker of Parliament to urgently address the deplorable condition of the road leading from Model Junction to the perimeter of the Parliament of Sierra Leone.

This appeal was made during a parliamentary debate on Thursday, July 11, 2024, regarding the agreement between the Government of Sierra Leone and the Gento Group of Companies.

Honorable Koroma expressed his dismay over the neglected state of the road, highlighting the irony and embarrassment of having such poor infrastructure leading to a place where laws are made and budgets are approved. “Mr. Speaker, we have reported about this road since the fifth Parliament, but up till now, no one has addressed the concerns of MPs,” he stated.

The road, which is a critical route for parliamentarians, has been in a state of disrepair for years, causing frustration and raising safety concerns. Honorable Koroma emphasized that the roads leading to Parliament should be of the highest quality, considering the importance of the institution. “The road is very bad to see when driving towards Parliament,” he added.

Further highlighting the gravity of the situation, Honorable Koroma pointed out that key figures such as the Minister of Finance, the Bank Governor, and the Gento Group frequently traverse this route. He urged the Speaker to engage with these stakeholders to ensure the necessary repairs are undertaken promptly.

The Deputy Opposition Leader’s call to action resonated with other members of Parliament, who also expressed their dissatisfaction with the state of the infrastructure. Particular attention was drawn to the neglected wooden bridge connecting the Administrative Building within Parliament. Described by many as a “death trap,” the bridge’s deteriorating condition poses a significant risk to those using it. The counterfeit boards used to patch the bridge have only exacerbated the danger, making it a hazardous passageway for MPs and staff alike.

In their collective appeal, MPs suggested that Parliament take immediate steps to close down the hazardous route to avoid any potential accidents. Ensuring the safety and accessibility of the roads leading to Parliament is not just a matter of convenience but a critical concern for the well-being of those who serve the nation.