By Amin Kef (Ranger)
In a resolute and unified stance against proposed tollgate fee increases, citizens alongside over 200 Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) across Sierra Leone have delivered a comprehensive position paper to the Honorable Speaker of the Parliament, Dr. Abass Bundu, and the Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Works. The document emphasizes the necessity of maintaining existing toll rates and demands an impartial investigation into the contractual intricacies surrounding the tollgate project.
Led by Edmond Abu, Jr., Executive Director of the Native Consortium and Research Centre, a group advocating for economic reforms and equality, the coalition of CSOs represents a significant voice in Sierra Leonean civil society. Abu, known as one of the leading economists in the nation, has been vocal about the government’s handling of political and economic challenges, particularly in the realm of petroleum products.
Presenting a five-point position paper to the Chairman and Clerk of the Parliamentary Oversight Committee on Works and Public Assets on Monday, March 18, 2024, Edmond Abu and his cohorts acted on behalf of Sierra Leonean citizens after conducting extensive consultations across the country’s 16 political districts.
The position paper addresses several key concerns raised by ordinary citizens and CSOs:
1. Rejection of Fee Increment: Citizens oppose any increase in tollgate fees, insisting that current rates remain unchanged until a thorough investigation is conducted.
2. Lack of Transparency and Accountability: Highlighting the lack of transparency and accountability within the tollgate project, the position paper calls for an independent investigation into legal, technical, and financial aspects of the agreement, amid allegations of governmental interference and corrupt practices.
3. Removal of Blockades: The immediate removal of blockades erected by the Concessionaire (CRSG) on alternative routes is demanded, citing national security risks and violations of citizens’ rights.
4. Contract Review: A comprehensive review of the tollgate contract is urged, in line with a promise made by President Maada Bio and the provisions of Article 22.15 of the agreement.
5. Reduction of Tollgates: CSOs advocate for the elimination of at least one tollgate to align with international standards and alleviate economic burdens on the populace.
Formally endorsed by 200 pressure groups, including CSOs, Trade Unions, Indigenous Transport Owners, and various stakeholders across all political districts, the position paper was submitted to the Parliamentary Committee on Works on March 19, 2024. Hon. Bashiru Silkie, Deputy Leader of Government Business and Chairman of the Parliamentary Oversight Committee on Works and Public Assets, received the submission at the Parliament Building in Tower Hill.
As the Parliament puts on hold the proposed increment on tollgate fees, scheduled to take effect on March 1, 2024, the Minister of Works and Public Affairs, Dr. Dennis Sandy, had earlier presented the review of toll fee charges to the House of Parliament. However, Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Dr. Chernor Abass Bundu, has insisted on delaying the review until the various concerns and proposals made by the public have been diligently investigated by Parliament.
With the nation awaits parliamentary deliberations on this critical issue, citizens and CSOs remain steadfast in their commitment to safeguarding the interests and rights of Sierra Leoneans, urging legislators to prioritize fairness, accountability, and transparency in the management of public infrastructure projects.
