Parliament of SL Ratify $480 Million MCC Agreement

By Abdul Rahman Bah

During the parliamentary session in Sierra Leone on October 15, 2024, Members of Parliament engaged in a thorough debate on the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Agreement at Tower Hill, Freetown. The discussion shed light on diverse perspectives regarding the potential benefits of the compact, particularly its impact on enhancing the country’s energy sector.

Hon. Tamba Kelly passionately advocated for the MCC Compact, emphasizing its significance in bolstering Sierra Leone’s energy sector. He specifically highlighted the imperative for the government to prioritize the Bumbuna hydroelectric project and the Electricity Generation and Transmission Company (EGTC).

Hon. Hindolo Gavao expressed deep appreciation to the U.S. government for the MCC Compact, underscoring its potential to elevate the lives of Sierra Leoneans through improved energy provisions.

Representing Falaba District, Hon. Mohamed Alpha Jalloh, while supportive of the MCC Compact, criticized the parliament for rushing its approval. He expressed concerns about the limited time MPs had to review the documents, speculating that the government’s haste might be linked to fears of the U.S. retracting the compact.

Hon. Dr Enfa Koroma commended Sierra Leone’s achievement in securing the $480 million MCC Compact, emphasizing its transformative potential for the nation. He expressed gratitude to the U.S. government for their support.

Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara, the first opposition whip, acknowledged the value of the Bumbuna Phase 2 project but criticized the government for not giving it adequate attention. He argued that the project could reduce reliance on the more expensive Turkish Karpower and urged the government to invest more in the energy sector to attract investors.

As the deputy leader of the opposition, Hon. Daniel Koroma described the MCC Compact as a blessing for the country and emphasized its broad benefits for all Sierra Leoneans. He also highlighted the importance of not solely focusing on combating corruption to achieve MCC goals.

Hon. Sahr Emerson Lamina, deputy leader 2, called for the swift ratification of the MCC Agreement, lauding President Bio’s leadership and governance.

Hon. Tawah Conteh, the deputy speaker, stressed the significance of strengthening the EGTC to ensure more affordable energy and advocated for the development of the Bumbuna hydropower project.

Opposition leader, Hon. Abdul Kargbo, concluded by affirming the positive impact of the MCC Compact on Sierra Leone.

Deputy Leader of Government Business, Hon. Bashiru Silikie, underscored the unity of the country and urged Members of Parliament to ratify the MCC agreement, emphasizing its vital role in fostering economic growth and strengthening governance in Sierra Leone.

The debate showcased a consensus on the potential benefits of the compact for the country, while also highlighting concerns about the urgency of the ratification process and the need for more strategic planning in the energy sector.