As the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) enters its seventh year in power under President Julius Maada Bio, the nation reflects on the administration’s accomplishments and the hurdles that lie ahead.
Campaign Promises and Policy Initiatives
Upon assuming office in 2018, President Bio’s administration outlined several key priorities:
Education: The introduction of free quality education for primary and secondary students aimed to enhance literacy rates and bolster human capital.
Economic Revitalization: Strategies were proposed to diversify the economy, reduce unemployment, and attract foreign investment.
Infrastructure Development: Ambitious projects, such as the proposed Lungi Bridge, were announced to improve connectivity and stimulate economic growth.
Anti-Corruption Measures: Strengthening institutions to combat corruption and promote transparency was emphasized as a cornerstone of the administration’s agenda.
Achievements to Date: In the realm of education, the government successfully launched the Free Quality Education (FQE) program, benefiting over two million children nationwide. This initiative has been praised for increasing school enrolment and promoting gender parity in education.
Regarding infrastructure, the Lungi Bridge project has seen progress. Initially estimated at $2 billion, the project’s cost was later adjusted to $1.2 billion, with construction anticipated to commence by the end of 2024. In December 2023, the government signed a $1.5 billion contract with the China Road and Bridge Corporation, signalling a commitment to advancing this critical infrastructure endeavour.
Areas of Concern
Despite these strides, several challenges persist: –
Economic Performance: The economy continues to grapple with high unemployment rates and inflation. External factors, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and global economic downturns, have exacerbated such issues, hindering the administration’s economic revitalization efforts.
Anti-Corruption Efforts: While institutional frameworks have been established, allegations of corruption within the administration have surfaced, undermining public trust and the effectiveness of anti-corruption campaigns.
Civil Liberties: The government’s approach to dissent has raised concerns. Incidents such as the arrest of social media influencer Hawa Hunt for her online criticisms highlight tensions between the administration and advocates of free speech. These actions have drawn international attention and criticism, suggesting a need for balancing governance with respect for civil liberties.
Public Perception and Political Landscape
The SLPP’s tenure has been marked by a complex interplay of achievements and unmet expectations. While initiatives like the Free Quality Education program have garnered praise, economic hardships and allegations of corruption have fuelled public dissatisfaction. The administration’s handling of protests and dissent has further polarized opinions, with critics accusing the government of authoritarian tendencies.
In the 2023 Presidential election, President Bio secured re-election, defeating Samura Kamara of the All People’s Congress (APC). The election occurred against a backdrop of economic challenges and social unrest, reflecting the electorate’s nuanced stance on the SLPP’s performance.
Prospects for the Future
As the SLPP enters its second term, the administration faces mounting pressure to deliver on its promises. Key areas requiring attention include: –
Economic Diversification: Implementing policies that promote sectors beyond mining, such as agriculture and tourism, could mitigate unemployment and stimulate sustainable growth.
Strengthening Governance: Enhancing transparency and accountability mechanisms is crucial to restoring public trust and ensuring effective service delivery.
Infrastructure Development: Timely execution of projects like the Lungi Bridge will serve as tangible evidence of the commitment of this administration to national development.
Social Cohesion: Engaging constructively with civil society and respecting democratic freedoms are essential for maintaining social harmony and political stability.
The question of whether President Bio and the SLPP government will ultimately deliver on their promises remains contingent on their ability to navigate complex socio-economic and political landscapes. While notable achievements have been made, significant challenges persist.
The administration’s success will largely depend on its responsiveness to citizens’ needs, adherence to democratic principles, and implementation of inclusive policies that foster national development.
