AYV News, November 4, 2024
The Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah and Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby have provided significant updates on Sierra Leone’s ongoing efforts to promote justice, social welfare, and healthcare improvements. Both ministers emphasised the government’s commitment to fairness, transparency, and addressing the critical needs of its citizens, particularly in the areas of sports and healthcare.
Minister Chernor Bah highlighted Sierra Leone’s successful appeal regarding the under-17 football team, which was initially disqualified from the WAFU Zone A tournament after failing an MRI test for over-aged players. The Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) contested the ruling, leading to an independent test that cleared the team to participate. Bah underscored the importance of adhering to due process and ensuring that the country’s athletes are treated fairly.
“Sierra Leone remains committed to upholding due process in all matters, as demonstrated in the successful appeal for our Under-17 football team’s re-qualification for WAFU,” he remarked. This success not only restored national pride but also strengthened confidence in the system, reinforcing the idea that persistence and trust in justice can lead to positive outcomes.
Additionally, Minister Bah addressed an important social justice issue concerning prisoners incarcerated because they were unable to pay fines for minor offenses. He referenced Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh’s recent initiative to release prisoners by covering their fines, a move that aligns with the government’s broader mission to promote equity and fairness. “No one should be imprisoned because of inability to pay small fines due to poverty,” Bah emphasized, highlighting that the government is determined to create a society where economic disadvantages do not lead to unjust penalties. This initiative reflects the administration’s ongoing efforts to break the cycle of poverty and ensure that justice is accessible to all citizens, regardless of financial status.
Minister of Health Dr. Austin Demby shifted the focus to the healthcare sector, addressing concerns over a potential doctors’ strike due to delays in fuel allocations. The fuel is essential for doctors to travel and perform their duties, particularly in remote areas. Acknowledging the concerns raised by the Medical and Dental Association, Dr. Demby reassured the public that the government had already allocated funds for the first two quarters and was working diligently to resolve the outstanding payments for the remaining quarters. “We recognize the sacrifices our doctors make, and we are working tirelessly to ensure their needs are met, including fuel allocations that are crucial to their work,” Demby stated.
Dr. Demby also made a heartfelt appeal to doctors, urging them to continue their service to the nation despite the challenges they face. He stressed the ethical responsibility of the medical profession and the importance of compassion during difficult times. “I urge our doctors to show compassion for the people of Sierra Leone and continue their invaluable service to the nation as we resolve this matter,” he said. His comments highlighted the government’s acknowledgment of the vital role doctors play in national development and its commitment to ensuring that their logistical needs are met.
The statements from Ministers Bah and Demby reflect the government’s proactive approach to tackling key issues of social justice and healthcare. By addressing the concerns of both the sports sector and the medical community, the government continues to prioritize fairness, equity, and the well-being of its citizens, with a clear focus on national progress.
