Opposition MP Condemns Government for Rural Power Shortage
During a recent parliamentary session, Hon. Umpha Gbassay Koroma, the opposition All Peoples Congress (APC) spokesperson, sharply criticized the government for neglecting rural communities by failing to provide electricity.
On Friday, August 9, 2024, Hon. Koroma specifically targeted the Electricity Generation and Transmission Company (EGTC) and the Electricity Distribution and Supply Authority (EDSA), accusing them of leaving many Sierra Leoneans without power. He stressed that electricity is crucial for social and economic development and expressed concern that rural residents might never experience its benefits due to “governmental neglect.”
“Electricity is more than just power; it’s a human right that underpins our economic and social progress,” Koroma stated. “Yet, countless citizens, especially those in remote villages, will likely die without ever seeing a lit bulb in their homes.”
His comments were made during the confirmation of two presidential nominees: Madam Princess Mayota Baby Rose Jah Turay as Deputy Ambassador to Germany and Ing. Samuel Jusu Alpha as Chairman of the EGTC. Koroma urged the new EGTC Chairman to prioritize expanding electricity to rural areas, advocating for innovative solutions to address current gaps. He criticized the existing focus on urban centers, which has left rural Sierra Leone in darkness, and called for an urgent reassessment of the nation’s energy priorities.
Koroma also emphasized the potential of alternative energy sources, particularly solar power, as a sustainable and cost-effective solution to the country’s energy challenges. He suggested that solar energy could replace the traditional reliance on hydroelectric and fossil fuel-powered systems, which are often expensive and difficult to maintain.
In closing, Hon. Koroma called on the Speaker of Parliament to ensure the newly approved officials address the electricity crisis in rural areas promptly. He expressed hope that these leaders would be catalysts for change, initiating projects to bring light to Sierra Leone’s most neglected communities.
