By Joseph Momoh, Reporter, D.S.
The Sierra Leone government’s recent announcement to divide existing districts and create new ones has ignited significant political backlash, with the All People’s Congress (APC) threatening to take action against the proposed changes.
Minister of Local Government and Community Affairs, Tamba Lamina, outlined the government’s position during an interview on Radio Democracy. He explained that the decision, made in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance and the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL), aims to enhance governance and ensure development reaches all regions. The proposed changes include the establishment of two new districts—Panguma and Bandajuma—and the division of the capital, Freetown, into two separate entities, alongside restructuring the Western Rural District (Waterloo) into three councils.
Lamina emphasized that these changes are based on a thorough review process and adhere to the legal framework established by the Local Government Act of 2022. He urged residents to support the decision and refrain from spreading misinformation, asserting that the government is acting within its legal rights.
However, the APC has voiced strong opposition. Opposition Whip of Parliament, Abdul Karim Kamara, criticized the government’s plans, calling them reckless if they do not reflect the needs of the populace. “If they go ahead with the division, we will take the necessary political actions,” Kamara declared, although he withheld specifics on what those actions might entail.
Kamara further stated that the Minister of Finance, Sheku Bangura, should provide better guidance on these matters, especially given the economic challenges facing various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). He argued that creating new cities is unnecessary while existing ones struggle to meet basic needs.
The APC contends that the government’s decision is a political maneuver by the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP)-led administration, aimed at increasing parliamentary seats and consolidating local government power.
As tensions rise and the political landscape becomes increasingly charged, all eyes are on the upcoming presidential declaration, which will finalize the proposed changes. With Sierra Leone heading towards the 2028 elections, the stakes have never been higher.
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Minister of Local Government and Community Affairs, Tamba Lamina
Opposition Whip of Parliament, Abdul Karim Kamara
