In a recent social media post, esteemed journalist Amadu Lamrana Bah voiced scathing criticism regarding the ongoing electricity crisis plaguing the nation.
Bah’s remarks come as the nation grapples with the ramifications of persistent power outages, particularly during critical parliamentary proceedings.
“As they set along to elect a Speaker and a Deputy Speaker of Parliament today, there was a power outage in the Well of Parliament as usual,” Bah wrote, highlighting the pervasive nature of the issue.
Drawing parallels between electricity supply and economic stability, Bah asserted, “Electricity supply like the economy doesn’t lie, you don’t need to try to convince people to believe that you’ve given them electricity, they would see and make use of it.”
Directly addressing President Julius Maada Bio’s administration, Bah questioned the efficacy of recent energy sector policies, particularly in light of a high-profile ministerial resignation and renegotiations with foreign partners.
“If His Excellency Julius Maada Bio could take over the Energy Ministry, a Minister whom you said has done all this good work resigned and you’re off to Turkey to renegotiate an agreement you signed and told us is one of the best, it means things aren’t right,” Bah stated.
Expressing empathy for the plight of ordinary citizens, particularly business owners and residents in the Central Business District, Bah emphasized the need for tangible solutions.
“It is almost a week now and we’re still in this electricity crisis. Can we have a timeline for when this will be resolved?” he implored.
Bah also underscored the importance of empathetic governance, urging leaders to prioritize the needs of all citizens.
“There’s a crisis, fix it. Until then allow even the homeless to complain. They’re your compatriots, not people begging you for help. You don’t love this country more than them either,” he emphasized.
While maintaining a stance against abusive discourse, Bah reaffirmed the importance of democratic dissent and accountability. “You signed up for this and can as well leave us in peace if you’re tired,” he concluded.
Bah’s candid remarks underscore growing frustration within the populace regarding the government’s handling of the electricity crisis, signaling a pressing need for swift and effective remedial action. #FreetownStories
