A former standard Bearer aspirant under the United Democratic Movement (UDM) party, and currently Chairman of the National Coalition for Democratic Freedom Movement (NCDFM), Pst. Yunku Kanu, has endorsed the Government White Paper on Commissions of Inquiry. The enquiry examined assets and activities of the former President, Vice President, Ministers and Deputy Ministers of State, Heads and Chairmen of Boards of Parastatals, Departments and Agencies within the period November 2007 to April 2018.
According to Pastor Kanu, all the available constitutional instruments were used in setting up the Commission of Inquiry (COI); “parliamentary recommendations were followed and it was of good will that His Excellency the President involved three judges who have wealth of experience internationally,” he emphasized.
“It was so unique that the persons of interest mentioned in the C.O.I. were notified beforehand, and were given the opportunity to bring on board their lawyers, and some were so bold to attend and make themselves available in the commission,” he commended. “This is where all justifications on the part of the government that they did the right thing. Today by reasons of the outcome of the government white paper, it is now the sole responsibility of all true and patriotic Sierra Leonean to accept it without any political sentiment and for the general good of the people of Sierra Leone. Fairly enough this historical event will be remembered in the book of history when history is written and written properly,” he continued.
He furthered that the movement has examined the information contained in the white paper and was enthused to congratulate President Bio, who in his campaign message had promised thus: “I will make Sierra Leone a corrupt free zone,”.
He said that the government white paper published 24/09/2020 is a testament of President Bio and his government pledge to fighting corruption in ‘Mama Salone.’ He acknowledges the fact that corruption is found in every society, but applauded President Bio by saying, “Your Excellency sir, your leadership is a clarion call to people or leaders who will succeed you in the future. You are really A BREATH OF FRESH AIR.” He stated further “the general membership of the Movement in the five regions of Sierra Leone supports your administration in this. You are clear, and you are on the right trajectory. Keep the good work. I have no doubt in my mind that if you continue with this trajectory of fighting corruption at the end of the marathon we shall celebrate you. There will be several distractions on your way, the only thing that will keep you going is consistency and hardwork.”
He emphasized, “I will endeavor to support this move until the better good is realized for the people of Sierra Leone. I am unequivocally endorsing the government white paper and its implementation to the fullest. To our development partners and the people of Sierra Leone it is good always to have the right person in the right place at the right time. And president Bio has proven beyond all reasonable doubt.”
Pastor Kanu admitted that at the start of the enquiry he had been skeptical about its relevance, but gained confidence in it when the judges were empaneled for the Commission of Inquiry (C.O.I). He commended the fact that the document had been publicized.
“Sierra Leone is for all of us, and we must enjoy its wealth equally. Let’s us come together to fight corruption decisively for the better good of Sierra Leone, adding that Sierra Leoneans should understand that the President is trying to regain the past glory of this country, nationally and internationally for the general good of Sierra Leoneans,” he concluded.
By Stephen V. Lansana
28/09/2020. ISSUE NO: 7918