By Shadrach Aziz Kamara
The Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) in Sierra Leone’s Parliament, Hon. Ibrahim Tawa Conteh, has issued a firm ultimatum to the China Railway Seventh Group (CRSG), demanding prompt payment of outstanding financial obligations to the government or face official sanctions.
Speaking during a recent committee hearing, Hon. Conteh directly addressed CRSG representatives, including a Mr. Augustine, outlining the committee’s next steps.
“We will restate your obligations and set specific payment deadlines,” he declared. “If you fail to comply, the matter will be escalated to the appropriate financial authorities, including the Accountant General’s Office, for enforcement.”
Hon. Conteh underscored the PAC’s commitment to enforcing financial discipline and ensuring that all companies — particularly those holding significant government contracts — meet their tax and financial responsibilities without exception.
“We prefer voluntary compliance,” he stated. “But if that fails, enforcement will follow. Government revenue cannot be delayed or ignored.”
This move forms part of PAC’s ongoing push to reinforce transparency and fiscal accountability across the board, particularly among large foreign contractors operating in Sierra Leone.
As of press time, CRSG had not issued an official response to the PAC’s warning.
3rd Lead
Chief Minister Advocates Social Media Monetization to Foster Positive Change and National Development
By Mohamed Kamara
In a bold move aimed at empowering Sierra Leone’s youth, Chief Minister Dr. David Moinineh Sengeh has introduced a social media monetization initiative, encouraging young people to use the platform for self-reliance and financial sustainability. The initiative is seen as a key strategy to curb the social ills often perpetuated by social media, such as the spread of misinformation, while promoting positive content and development-oriented discussions.
The program will train participants in how to attract and engage audiences with meaningful content that aligns with societal values and promotes national growth. The initiative’s focus is to guide aspiring bloggers and social media influencers on distinguishing between harmful content—often aimed at defaming individuals, organizations, or institutions—and content that contributes positively to society. It aims to shift the narrative by encouraging individuals to use their platforms to highlight issues of national importance, foster unity, and support development efforts.
Dr. Sengeh’s initiative also seeks to combat the temptation of character assassination and malicious online behavior by offering an alternative that emphasizes peace-building, national cohesion, and civic education. He highlights the potential of social media to disseminate vital information far more rapidly than traditional media, and stresses the importance of promoting civic engagement and integrity in the digital landscape.
“This initiative will transform social media from a tool of division into a powerful instrument for national development,” said Dr. Sengeh. “It’s about encouraging youth to become responsible digital citizens who contribute positively to the country’s progress, instead of engaging in unpatriotic crusades.”
As an expert in innovation, Dr. Sengeh is committed to inspiring the youth of Sierra Leone to embrace a future of self-reliance and active participation in the nation’s development.
