With Stiff Conditions For Compact Eligibility… MCC Punctures Bio’s Democratic Credentials
After the signing of the $480 Million compact between the United State (US) and the government of Sierra Leone, statement from the United State Embassy in Sierra Leone questions President Bio’s democratic credentials.
This was disclosed in their press statement dated 27th September 2024 noting that the United States Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) and the government of Sierra Leone signed a compact agreement to strengthen Sierra Leone’s energy sector.
The release furthered that there is an additional $14.2 million contribution form the government of Sierra Leone geared towards fostering sustainable economic growth and improving the quality of life of the people.
“This compact is a testament to the strong partnership between the United States and Sierra Leone,” said US Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Bryant Hunt.
The US also maintained that by investing in the country’s energy infrastructure, they will contribute to overcoming the obstacles to both human development and private sector driven economic growth.
However, the US maintained that Sierra Leone’s eligibility for the compact remains dependent on the country’s sustained commitment to advancing democracy, combating corruption, and investing in its people.
The US also stated that Sierra Leone will need to continue to meet eligibility benchmarks in the areas highlighted throughout the life of the compact and that the agreement for National Unity and recommendations of the joint tripartite committee should be fully and expeditiously implemented by the government of Sierra Leone.
“Cooperation between the ruling Sierra Leone Peoples Party and the opposition All Peoples Congress on adopting recommended electoral and constitutional reforms and achieving justice and accountability for violence related to the 2023 electoral cycle will be key to this effort,” the release affirmed.
Many Sierra Leoneans believe that these are serious conditions attached for Sierra Leone to pull through this compact.
