By Foday Moriba Conteh
In a Press Conference held on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, the Government of Sierra Leone reaffirmed its dedication to justice and healthcare reform through updates provided by Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah and Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby. The Ministers addressed critical national concerns, reflecting the Government’s commitment to ensuring fairness, transparency and the well-being of its citizens.
Minister Chernoh Bah opened the session by highlighting Sierra Leone’s recent success in overturning the disqualification of the national Under-17 football team from the WAFU Zone A tournament. The team was initially excluded after an MRI test ruled them over-aged. However, an appeal by the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) led to an independent re-examination, which cleared the team to compete. The Minister emphasized that this outcome demonstrates the country’s commitment to due process and the importance of fairness in sports.
“Sierra Leone remains steadfast in upholding justice in all sectors, including sports,” said Chernoh Bah. “Our Under-17 football team’s re-qualification is a victory for fairness and national pride and it strengthens our confidence in due process.” This success, he noted, is a testament to the value of persistence and trust in the systems designed to protect the interests of all Sierra Leoneans.
In a further demonstration of the Government’s commitment to social justice, the Information Minister also discussed an initiative launched by Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh. The initiative aims to address the issue of prisoners incarcerated for failing to pay fines for minor offenses. The Chief Minister personally paid fines for several individuals, securing their release. Minister Chernoh Bah emphasized that poverty should never result in imprisonment, reiterating the Government’s stance on equitable justice.
“No one should be behind bars because they cannot afford small fines,” he declared. “We are working to ensure that economic disadvantages do not translate into unjust penalties.” This effort is part of a broader initiative by the Government to break the cycle of poverty and ensure equal access to justice for all, regardless of financial status, he pointed out.
Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby, shifted the focus to the healthcare sector, addressing growing concerns over a potential doctors’ strike. The Medical and Dental Association had raised alarm over delayed fuel allocations, which are essential for enabling doctors to travel, particularly to remote areas. Dr. Austin Demby reassured the public that the Government had already provided fuel funds for the first two quarters of the year and was making every effort to settle the remaining payments.
“We fully recognize the critical role our doctors play in healthcare delivery across the country, especially in underserved regions,” Dr. Austin Demby said. “We are working tirelessly to ensure their logistical needs, including fuel allocations, are met.”
In his remarks, the Health Minister also made a direct appeal to doctors, asking them to continue their work despite the challenges. He reminded them of the ethical responsibility that comes with their profession and urged them to maintain their dedication to the people of Sierra Leone.
“I appeal to our doctors to show compassion and to continue serving the nation as we work through these issues. The Government values your contributions and is committed to resolving these logistical challenges,” Dr Austin Demby added. His comments underscored the Government’s recognition of the essential role doctors play in national development and the commitment to ensuring that the health sector remains functional and resilient.
The comprehensive updates provided by Ministers Chernor Bah and Dr Austin Demby reflect the Government’s proactive stance in addressing key national issues. From ensuring justice and fairness in sports and the legal system to addressing logistical concerns in the healthcare sector, the Government remains focused on promoting equity, transparency and the welfare of its citizens. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy aimed at driving national progress and improving the quality of life for all Sierra Leoneans, according to the Information Minister.
