Nuclear Safety and Radiation Protection Agency Faces Corruption Allegations and Worker Protests

By Abdul Rahman Bah

The Nuclear Safety and Radiation Protection Agency, a critical component of Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Environment, has recently come under intense scrutiny amidst allegations of rampant corruption and severe mismanagement. These issues have prompted agency workers to hold a protest, demanding immediate action from the President’s Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) and the government. The protest took place at the agency’s headquarters on Liverpool Street on July 24th, 2024.

At the heart of the protest are accusations of embezzlement exceeding 300 billion Leones, coupled with complaints about poor working conditions and general mismanagement within the agency. Ahmed Deen Swarray, a scientist at the agency, has been vocal about these issues, specifically naming the executive secretary, John Jabati, and his associates as the primary culprits behind the alleged corruption.

Swarray detailed a series of serious allegations against Jabati, asserting that despite a decision by the agency’s board to suspend him and ongoing investigations by both the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and the ACC, Jabati resumed his position with apparent support from the Minister of Environment and the Permanent Secretary. This move, according to Swarray, has exacerbated the situation, undermining the authority of the board and the integrity of the investigations.

One of the most alarming claims involves Jabati’s alleged closure of the office of the board chairman, who was appointed by the president. Swarray contended that Jabati’s actions, which included the embezzlement of significant funds, directly led to his suspension. He also accused Jabati of intimidating workers and forcibly entering his sealed office, further escalating tensions within the agency.

The allegations extend beyond internal mismanagement to suggest that under Jabati’s leadership, substantial revenue generated from mineral shipments over the years has been misappropriated. This embezzlement has reportedly contributed to the financial and operational chaos currently plaguing the agency.

The protestors are not just calling for Jabati’s removal but are demanding a comprehensive investigation and robust action from the ACC and other relevant authorities. They insist that only through thorough scrutiny and accountability can the integrity and proper management of the Nuclear Safety and Radiation Protection Agency be restored.

This situation underscores the broader challenges of corruption and governance facing Sierra Leone’s public institutions. The outcome of this case could set a significant precedent for how such allegations are handled and how public trust in government agencies can be rebuilt. The workers’ protest reflects a desperate plea for justice and reform, highlighting the urgent need for transparency, accountability, and effective governance in the fight against corruption.