Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Abdul Rashid Thomas
Published on 2024-03-20 14:57:24
Recently, Sierra Leone has found itself in a web of agreements with Chinese companies, sparking concerns about the government’s loyalty to its citizens and traditional alliances. The government has signed various agreements that grant major infrastructure projects to Chinese firms, such as road construction, the Lumley Juba Bridge, and the national stadium. Additionally, the Pepel rail agreement heavily favors the Chinese mining company, China Kingho, now known as Leone Rock Mining Group, sidelining the potential investment from India’s Sierra Industrial Zone.
One of the most contentious issues is the recent signing of the Lungi Bridge contract with a Chinese entity. Critics argue that these agreements signal Sierra Leone’s increasing submissiveness to China, potentially overshadowing its historical ties with England, its former colonizer. The decision to raise toll fees on citizens and extend the concession period on these projects has sparked public skepticism and raised concerns about the country’s sovereignty.
Citizens are questioning why the government is prioritizing partnerships with China over agreements with countries that share historical and cultural bonds with Sierra Leone. This shift has left many feeling discontented, as they wonder why the government appears to be more aligned with China than with England.
Critics fear that these decisions could jeopardize Sierra Leone’s autonomy and raise doubts about the transparency of these deals. Local activists and opposition figures are demanding a thorough investigation into these agreements, calling for accountability and transparency from the government. They argue that the nation’s resources and infrastructure projects should prioritize the welfare of the citizens, rather than serving the interests of foreign entities.
As Sierra Leone grapples with these controversial contracts, citizens eagerly await the government’s response to the growing discontent and concerns surrounding the country’s allegiances and decision-making processes. It is crucial for the government to address these issues and ensure that the interests of the citizens are safeguarded in all agreements and partnerships.
The future of Sierra Leone’s development and relationships with foreign entities will greatly depend on how the government addresses these concerns and prioritizes the well-being of its people. Transparency, accountability, and citizen welfare should be at the forefront of all decisions and agreements made by the government to ensure a prosperous and harmonious future for Sierra Leone.
Read the original article on Sierra Leone Telegraph
