By Alusine A. Sesay
According to a recent newspaper report (highlighted in pink), a breakdown of national revenue streams unveiled a troubling omission: under the “Minerals Revenue” tab, not a single collection from mining companies was recorded. -not a penny.
We now find ourselves in a scenario where mining companies, whose raison d’être is to generate national income through the extraction of our natural resources, are apparently not recorded in even paying their modest dues. Why The Mineral companies are not in any rush to pay their meagre taxes? Why is that?
We see some politicians including President Maada Bio, fostering uncomfortably cozy, cordial, and decidedly unprofessional, relationships with these same companies, to the evident detriment of the public purse.
Just days ago, President Maada Bio was spotted in a lavish vehicle, allegedly to be a “gift” from none other than the head of the Leone Rock Metal Group — the same company whose revenue contributions are mysteriously absent from the national ledger. In any functioning democracy, such a gesture would be seen for what it is: a glaring conflict of interest, and brazen corruption.
And as if the exorbitant and gratuitous tax exemptions/tax breaks, granted to these foreign entities weren’t already a slap in the face to fiscal justice, Leone Rock Metal Group is now facing allegations of flagrantly disregarding local employment laws.
The firm stands accused of FLOODING Sierra Leone with IMPORTED LABOUR, predominantly Chinese, while systematically excluding highly competent Sierra Leoneans from the positions they rightfully deserve, in direct VIOLATION of LOCAL CONTENT legislation.
In light of these realities, one must ask: what, if anything, is currently functioning in Sierra Leone?
Is it the economy?
Food affordability?
Access to clean water?
Electricity supply?
The education system?
Public health?
Infrastructure?
National/International sports?
The rule of law?
Transportation?
Border security? et al.
Or even the sacred SOCIAL CONTRACT between government and governed?
Frankly, it would appear the answer, tragically- is absolutely nothing at all. One might say that if governance in Sierra Leone were a mining site, it’s long overdue for reclamation.
And until there is accountability, transparency, and political will to prioritise national interest over private indulgence, Sierra Leone will continue to trade its wealth for woe.
