In his 16th address to the nation, Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh highlighted the critical connection between insecurity and the country’s economic stagnation.
Dr. Sengeh urged citizens to disregard politicians who incite violence or spread tension.
“Such unpatriotic elements instill fear and create panic, giving an impression of insecurity which will hinder development and the economy,” he stated.
The Chief Minister lamented that insecurity deters potential investors.
“Few will take the risk to invest in an environment marred by unnecessary tension,” he noted, emphasizing that resources meant for development are instead funneled into heightened security measures.
“Sometimes it is not the government’s preference to deploy soldiers and police on the streets, but if there is insecurity, we have no choice but to ensure peace and stability,” Dr. Sengeh explained.
He disclosed that significant funds have been allocated to maintain security over the past year.
Insecurity impacts the economy by reducing monetary circulation, leading to business collapse, unemployment, and poverty. “If there is no money to spend, various sectors will break down,” he pointed out.
Dr. Sengeh also mentioned the adverse effects of insecurity on capital flight and asset depreciation.
“People become jittery about depositing their resources in banks, which hampers economic growth,” he noted.
He emphasized the difficulty in enforcing laws, such as the mandate for exporters to repatriate 30% of their profits into the national economy, during times of insecurity.
Concluding his address, Dr. Sengeh called on the public to ignore those inciting violence.
“Such political enthusiasts are unpatriotic and haters of the people of Sierra Leone,” he stated. He reaffirmed the Bio-led government’s commitment to development and urged citizens to support efforts for peace and stability.
