By Dadson A. Musa
The Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Compact, signed in September 2024, represents a major opportunity for Sierra Leone to transform its energy sector. Valued at $480 million USD, the compact aims to modernize our national energy infrastructure, expand the national power grid, enhance electricity distribution, and strengthen institutional capacity for energy governance.
In addition to the MCC’s commitment, the Government of Sierra Leone is contributing $14.2 million USD, showing its own investment in the success of the program. Although implementation began with the disbursement of the first tranche, progress was temporarily put on hold during the Trump administration due to a policy review. That delay aside, Sierra Leone remains among just 12 countries worldwide and only 5 in Africa selected to benefit from this transformative partnership. It is a welcome development for Mama Salone.
However, successful implementation depends heavily on meeting agreed benchmarks. This is not a lump sum windfall. The funds will be disbursed in phases, based on performance. Failure to meet the conditions could result in Sierra Leone losing access to the remaining funds. If implemented transparently and efficiently, the MCC compact could significantly improve our energy supply and create an environment that attracts both local and international investors.
There is renewed debate about tenure in political office both for individuals and parties. Under the 1991 Constitution of Sierra Leone, a president can serve two five-year terms. This does not apply to political parties, which are free to contest in as many elections as the people will support. The idea that a party must step down after two terms has no legal basis. In fact, in the United States a model democracy the Republican Party once held the presidency for three consecutive terms.
What matters is record and performance, not arbitrary restrictions. If a party continues to win elections fairly, and delivers for the people, it should be allowed to govern. Any suggestion otherwise lacks constitutional support.
The Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) will hold its delegates’ conference from 30–31 July 2025. This is an important moment for the party, as it elects new executives to guide its future direction. I urge party leaders, members, supporters, and well-wishers to ensure a peaceful and democratic process. Violence or manipulation has no place in internal party politics.
Let the process be transparent, let the best candidates win, and let the outcome strengthen our democracy. Political parties must serve as vehicles for democratic growth not as grounds for division.
As President Julius Maada Bio enters his seventh year in office, public opinion remains divided. While critics point to unmet promises and ongoing challenges, one must also acknowledge clear achievements. Under his leadership, First Lady Fatima Bio was elected President of the Organisation of African First Ladies, a symbolic but important diplomatic victory. President Bio himself now serves as Chairman of ECOWAS, a strong signal of international confidence.
Progress may be incremental, but it is real. Education reforms, energy expansion, and governance improvements though still facing obstacles are laying foundations for long-term national development. The pessimists and naysayers will always find something to criticize, but we must also recognize progress when it happens.
As we navigate these times politically, economically, and institutionally what Sierra Leone needs most is collective responsibility. From the ruling government to the opposition, from civil society to the average citizen, we all share in the task of building a better Mama Salone. Let us reject cynicism, embrace accountability, and move forward together.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Wednesday,30th July, 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
