By Fatima Kpaka
Port Loko, Sierra Leone — August 18, 2025 The Parliamentary Oversight Committee on Transparency and Accountability has intensified its scrutiny of local governance, turning its attention to the Port Loko District Council in a hearing held at the council’s hall on Monday.
Led by Committee Chairman Hon. Maada Lebbie, the session aimed to assess the council’s adherence to transparency standards and its management of both public and donor funds. Hon. Lebbie invoked Section 93(6) of the 1991 Constitution, reminding council officials that parliamentary committees wield powers equivalent to a High Court when ruling on matters before them.
The committee’s review uncovered a series of troubling issues:
- Weak revenue collection mechanisms
- Incomplete financial documentation
- Procurement irregularities
- Poor project implementation and maintenance
- Unclear accountability in donor-funded initiatives
Chief Administrator Mr. Arthur Alieu acknowledged the challenges but defended the council’s broad mandate, which spans education, health, and infrastructure. He noted that while infrastructure remains a top priority, the council is investing in capacity building to improve operational efficiency.
Regarding donor-funded projects, Mr. Alieu referenced a European Union initiative that concluded in 2023, assuring Parliament that future partnerships would be better managed.
This oversight session forms part of Parliament’s broader campaign to reinforce accountability and ensure that local councils not only deliver services but also uphold the principles of good governance.