Information Minister Clarifies Government’s Position on Parliament, Economy, Child Protection, Citizenship and Cost of Living
By Marian Magdalene Bangura
Strategic Communication Unit – Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MoICE)
Minister of Information and Civic Education, Hon. Chernor Bah, has reaffirmed Government’s commitment to accountability, constitutional governance, child protection, economic transformation and transparent public communication, assuring Sierra Leoneans that the administration remains focused on addressing national challenges while sustaining progress across key sectors.
The Minister made the remarks during an interactive question-and-answer session with journalists, civil society organisations, media practitioners and members of the public at the Special Edition Government Press Conference held on Tuesday, 7th July 2026, at the Miatta Civic Centre in Freetown.
Responding to a wide range of questions and public concerns, Hon. Bah emphasized the importance of constructive dialogue in strengthening democracy and promoting informed public discourse.
Parliament’s Oversight Role
Addressing concerns about the relationship between Parliament and the Executive, Minister Bah underscored the constitutional responsibility of Parliament to scrutinize government decisions and hold public officials accountable.
He explained that Members of Parliament have both the right and the duty to debate government policies, ask questions and seek clarification on matters brought before the House, noting that such oversight is fundamental to good governance.
According to the Minister, Cabinet and Parliament perform distinct constitutional functions but must continue working collaboratively in the national interest.
“There are established processes within Government, including Cabinet committees chaired by senior officials, while Parliament exercises its constitutional mandate through debate and oversight. Both institutions are essential to ensuring that decisions taken are in the best interest of Sierra Leone,” he said.
He stressed that healthy engagement between the Executive and Parliament strengthens governance and contributes to better policy outcomes for the country.
Government Strengthening Child Protection
On child protection and child abuse, Minister Bah described the issue as one of Government’s highest priorities, highlighting ongoing efforts to strengthen legislation, improve institutional responses and raise public awareness.
He noted that Sierra Leone has made significant progress in developing one of the region’s strongest legal frameworks to combat child abuse, cyber-enabled exploitation and other forms of violence against children.
The Minister referenced Sierra Leone’s participation in recent international engagements, including discussions in Geneva, where the country’s commitment to protecting children’s rights and preventing abuse was reaffirmed.
While acknowledging that legislation alone cannot eliminate crime, he emphasized that Government remains determined to ensure that perpetrators are investigated, prosecuted and held accountable.
“We must never tolerate abuse in any form—whether physical, sexual or online. As technology evolves, new threats emerge, and our institutions must remain vigilant and responsive,” he stated.
Citizenship Matters Governed by Law
Responding to questions on citizenship applications and related legal processes, Hon. Bah reiterated that Government remains committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that all applications are processed in accordance with existing legal and regulatory frameworks.
He explained that while some applicants have been approved, others have not met the necessary legal requirements or encountered technical issues during the review process.
According to the Minister, all citizenship and residency matters are handled through established procedures by the relevant authorities, ensuring fairness, transparency and legal compliance.
Positive Economic Indicators
On the state of the economy, Minister Bah said Sierra Leone continues to record encouraging progress despite prevailing global economic uncertainties.
He disclosed that the country is projecting economic growth of approximately 5.5 per cent in 2026, placing Sierra Leone above the continental average.
The Minister also highlighted improvements across several key economic and social indicators, including a reduction in the national debt-to-GDP ratio from about 79 per cent to 65 per cent, while food insecurity has declined from approximately 20 per cent to 13 per cent.
He further pointed to progress in maternal healthcare, education, literacy and broader human development outcomes as evidence that Government’s policies are yielding measurable results.
“If you examine the various indicators, you will see clear evidence of progress. At the same time, we recognise that challenges remain, and Government is committed to addressing them through sustained reforms and responsible economic management,” he said.
Managing Cost-of-Living Pressures
Responding to concerns about fuel prices and the rising cost of living, the Minister acknowledged the impact of global economic shocks, particularly international fuel price fluctuations.
He noted that Government has implemented measures to maintain stable fuel supplies and minimise disruptions while protecting the broader economy from external pressures.
Hon. Bah identified exchange rate stability as one of the strongest indicators of Sierra Leone’s improving economic fundamentals, explaining that the country has maintained relative stability despite global economic headwinds.
“I am not suggesting that every challenge has been resolved. However, the economic fundamentals are stronger today than they were in previous years, and Government remains focused on building on those gains,” he stated.
Commitment to Transparent Communication
Concluding the engagement, Minister Bah emphasized the importance of open communication between Government and citizens, noting that public officials have a responsibility to explain policies clearly, respond to concerns and promote fact-based national conversations.
He encouraged citizens to continue participating in constructive dialogue, stressing that while differing opinions are a natural part of democracy, discussions should remain focused on advancing Sierra Leone’s development.
“This is a moment of national importance. Every Sierra Leonean has a role to play in building our country. Government will continue to engage openly, communicate transparently and work with citizens in pursuit of national progress,” he concluded.
The Special Edition Government Press Conference formed part of the Ministry of Information and Civic Education’s ongoing public engagement strategy to provide timely information, clarify national issues and strengthen transparency, accountability and civic participation through direct interaction between Government officials, the media and the public.
