APC Criticizes Government of Bio for Worsening Economic Situation, Claiming EBK Raised Sufficient Revenue

Sidi Yayah Tunis, the National Publicity Secretary of the All People's Congress (APC), has been a prominent voice in Sierra Leone's political debate, criticizing the economic policies carried out by President Bio's administration.

 

Recent comments from Tunis have highlighted the worsening economic circumstances afflicting the country, raising concerns among stakeholders and civilians alike.

The main focus of Tunis's criticism is the obvious stress that the sudden increases in the cost of necessities have placed on regular Sierra Leoneans. He cites basic commodities like rice and electricity, the prices of which have increased significantly and burdened individuals who are already struggling to make ends meet. Tunis's statement that the price of a bag of rice now exceeds the minimum pay of the typical worker, indicating a concerning decline in the purchasing power of the public, emphasizes how grave the situation is.

Electricity rates are a vivid illustration of the economic hardships that Sierra Leoneans endure. Tunis draws attention to an alarming decline in the number of units received every top-up, highlighting the stark difference between the comparatively large number of units acquired in 2018 and the inadequate allocation in the current year. This discrepancy provides a moving example of the financial struggles that regular people face as a result of the existing economic system.

In the context of these economic difficulties, Tunis criticizes the pledges made by the Bio administration when it came to office in 2018. He argues that the current government's policies have not resulted in real advantages for the people, even in spite of promises to improve living circumstances and promote economic growth. The disconnect between rhetoric and reality has contributed to the disenchantment of residents who are already facing difficult realities in their daily lives.

Tunis compares the current state of the economy to that of the previous APC-led administration led by President Ernest Bai Koroma, drawing on historical precedence. According to Tunis, the APC showed a remarkable capacity for self-sufficiency in revenue generation during their tenure in office, which allowed them to finance vital infrastructure projects without unduly depending on outside funds. This comparison highlights the alleged inadequacies of the current administration in terms of efficiently overseeing the country's economic matters.

Tunis emphasizes the necessity for comprehensive participation from all stakeholders in a deliberate national discourse on the economy in light of these urgent problems. He highlights that solving the country's deteriorating economic situation calls for cooperation and participation from professionals, legislators, and the general public. According to Tunis, Sierra Leone can only steer toward sustainable growth and economic recovery through such cooperative efforts.