In the wake of the ongoing opposition stance, the Councilor of Ward 443 Aberdeen, Hamed Karim Bangura, is making a fervent appeal to the APC elected Councilors to actively participate in governance, highlighting its essential role in national development.
The APC, the main opposition party, has steadfastly abstained from engaging in governance following their reservations about the legitimacy of the recent June 24th, 2023 ‘Presidential and General Elections.’
On Thursday, August 17, 2023, while Councillors took their oath of office at the Freetown City Hall, the elected Councilors from APC were conspicuously absent from the ceremony.
Bangura, known for his commitment to progress and development, has reached out to his counterparts in the APC, urging them not to let their opposition status hinder their involvement in shaping the country’s path forward.
In his words, “Opposition is part of government and democracy. So I will be happy if they come to take their seat for the betterment of the country.”
Stressing the significance of unity, he reminded them of the wise counsel from the vice president to transcend political boundaries and work together for the nation’s good.
Speaking further about his aspiration for the Aberdeen community, Bangura expressed his determination to enhance the region’s appeal as a tourist destination. With plans to make Aberdeen more attractive to visitors over the next five years, he demonstrates a strong developmental orientation that aligns with the broader goals of the country.
During the same event, Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh took the podium, urging Councilors to collaborate irrespective of their political affiliations.
He emphasized that working in tandem with opposition parties can lead to the implementation of the President’s manifesto and advancement of the nation’s interests.
The vice president commended the passing of the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act, spearheaded by the former Minister of Gender and Children Affairs, Mrs. Manty Tarawalie.
Dr. Jalloh underscored the importance of transparency, fiscal responsibility, and cleanliness in the city.
He shed light on the government’s initiatives to increase electricity access across the country, with plans to provide solar energy to villages. Additionally, the vice president addressed advancements in the health sector, boasting a reduction in maternal mortality rates and a substantial increase in healthcare workers.
Furthermore, Minister of Local Government and Community Affairs, Tamba Lamina, highlighted the pivotal role of local governance as a bridge between the government and citizens.
Stressing the significance of citizen participation, Lamina called on councilors to collaborate with their communities to identify and address prevailing issues.
Lamina stressed the government’s commitment to decentralization and its success in ensuring tribal and village representation in local councils. He emphasized the need for councilors to actively monitor and support government projects at the grassroots level, advocating for self-sufficiency through revenue generation.
In the evolving landscape of Sierra Leonean politics, the plea from Councilor Hamed Karim Bangura to APC elected Councilors carries the weight of unity, development, and the collective pursuit of a prosperous nation. As the country strives for progress, the synergy between opposing parties becomes paramount in steering the ship of state toward a brighter future.
