Chief Minister of Sierra Leone, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, has dismissed speculation of internal conflict among the country’s Cabinet and government officials, following growing public concerns over who should be credited for securing the US$480 million Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Compact Program.

The speculation surfaced after President Julius Maada Bio and First Lady Fatima Bio publicly praised Vice President Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh for his instrumental role in securing the MCC Compact, highlighting his efforts in tracking the MCC Scorecard and working closely with the relevant team.

However, their failure to acknowledge Chief Minister David Sengeh’s contributions in the same process sparked debates among ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) supporters.

The First Lady’s recent comment that ‘the Chief Minister is not the President’ added to the growing speculation, with many interpreting it as a reflection of an internal divide within the ruling SLPP.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Dr. David Sengeh later came forward to emphasize his own pivotal role in the process. Sengeh revealed that a one-hour meeting with a Congressional staff member was instrumental in lifting a Congressional hold on the MCC Compact.

The conflicting claims have led to speculation about potential disagreements within the Sierra Leonean government. While Sengeh has attempted to downplay the tensions, the public debate has raised questions about the transparency and unity of the administration.

Taking to social media on Friday, the Chief Minister sought to quell any perceived tension.

“At today’s Cabinet meeting, we approved many progressive instruments, including the GEWE regulations and the MCC Grant. In response to President Bio’s request for approval, the Vice President said, ‘moved by all ministers, seconded by the VP and the CM.’ We’re one government, and together #WeWillDeliver.”

Chief Minister Sengeh emphasized that the government is united and focused on delivering results for the people of Sierra Leone.