A growing debate has emerged around the official tenure of Hon. Brima Baluwa Koroma, Executive Chairperson of the Petroleum Regulatory Authority (PRA), following the expiration of his term on October 4, 2024.

Under the PRA Act of 2014, the Executive Chairperson is permitted to serve for a three-year term, with eligibility for only one reappointment.

Koroma, who was appointed in 2018, has served the maximum two terms, making his tenure at the PRA officially over.Section 4 of the 2014 PRA Act is clear on the term limits for both the Executive Chairperson and the PRA Board members.

It states that they “shall hold office for a period of three years and shall be eligible for re-appointment only once.” This makes Koroma’s tenure, which ended on October 4, final, despite his notable contributions to the agency during his time in office.

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While Koroma’s leadership has been recognized for navigating regulatory complexities within the petroleum sector, there is increasing pressure for adherence to the statutory guidelines that govern the PRA.

His work, particularly on stabilizing the sector and improving regulatory frameworks, has earned praise. However, as his term has ended, calls for a lawful transition to new leadership are growing louder.

Recent reports indicate that Koroma is lobbying stakeholders, including members of Parliament, the Law Officers Department, the Minister of Trade, and senior officials within the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), to seek amendments to the PRA Act.

The proposed changes would involve reclassifying the PRA from an agency to an authority, potentially allowing Koroma to continue in a leadership role.

This has raised concerns, as it suggests an attempt to extend his tenure beyond the legal limits set by the 2014 Act.Despite his significant contributions, observers emphasize that Koroma is not the only qualified individual capable of leading the PRA.

Sierra Leone boasts a wealth of competent professionals who could bring fresh ideas and new energy to the agency. Given the ongoing challenges, such as fluctuating pump prices and product shortages, the PRA needs dynamic leadership that can tackle these issues with innovative solutions.

Amid the lobbying efforts, some critics have also raised allegations against Koroma related to his management practices, including accusations of corruption and poor workplace conduct.

However, these issues remain secondary to the larger debate about the need for a smooth, lawful leadership transition.As Koroma’s tenure comes to a close, there is a call for him to gracefully step aside and allow new leadership to emerge.

Many believe that the PRA stands to benefit from fresh perspectives, as new leadership could bring about innovative approaches to address the pressing issues facing the petroleum sector in Sierra Leone.

In conclusion, while Koroma’s service to the PRA has been appreciated, it is time for the organization to move forward. Sierra Leone’s petroleum sector needs leadership that not only adheres to legal frameworks but also drives progress in response to the sector’s evolving challenges. As the PRA looks ahead, it is crucial that the agency embraces this opportunity for renewal and growth.