Freetown is “The Darkest City on Earth”
…APC Deputy National Publicity Secretary blasts
In a scathing critique of the current state of affairs in Freetown, Mohamed Pope Kamara, the Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the opposition All People’s Congress (APC) party, has labeled the city as “the darkest city on earth.”
His remarks come amidst growing dissatisfaction with the performance of the Bio-led Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) administration. Kamara’s comments were made during a press conference held earlier this week, where he outlined what he termed the shameful legacy of the SLPP government and its impact on the lives of ordinary Sierra Leoneans.
According to Kamara, Freetown has deteriorated significantly under the SLPP’s governance, particularly in areas such as electricity supply, infrastructure, and basic services. He emphasized that while the former APC regime had successfully put a stop to persistent power outages—commonly referred to as “blackout”—the current administration has plunged the city into darkness once again.
“Freetonians have put blackout behind us under the last regime of the APC,” he stated emphatically, underscoring the stark contrast between the two governments’ records on energy provision.
The Deputy National Publicity Secretary expressed deep concern that the daily struggles faced by average Sierra Leoneans have only worsened under the current leadership. He pointed out how food items are perishing during the holy month of Ramadan due to the unreliable power supply, adding a layer of hardship to an already challenging situation for many households. “More suffering is now the reality for our people,” Kamara lamented, calling attention to the pressing need for immediate solutions to alleviate the struggles of families across the capital.
Kamara’s criticism extended to the government’s reliance on experts from international agencies. He cited a United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) energy expert who, according to Kamara, can only offer paper solutions rather than tangible, on-the-ground results. “The reality is this regime has failed in nearly every sector,” he asserted, highlighting energy issues that he claims are driving people deeper into poverty. Furthermore, he accused the current government of prioritizing corruption and nepotism over meaningful development and accountability.
With increasing frustration palpable in his voice, Kamara emphasized the resilience and resolve of the Sierra Leonean people, stating, “One thing I am proud of is the resolve of the people to show this current SLPP government the exit doors. Enough is enough!” His passionate declaration resonated with many who have echoed similar sentiments across social media platforms and community discussions.
Drawing attention to systemic failures, Kamara elaborated on his assertion that poor governance has created an environment ripe for discontent. He highlighted the struggles faced by citizens in accessing basic necessities such as clean water, healthcare, and reliable public transportation—all of which he attributes to a lack of effective leadership. “These kinds of failures are unbearable,” he remarked, insisting that the citizens deserve better from their government.
To further illustrate his point, Kamara recounted instances of public discontent that have swept through Freetown, ranging from protests against rising living costs to campaigns demanding transparency and accountability from government officials. “People are tired of the rhetoric; they want real change,” he said, urging citizens to unite in their demand for improved governance.
In addition to criticizing the government’s failure to address energy crisis, Kamara noted other pressing issues that plague Freetown, including youth unemployment and inadequate educational facilities.
“Our youth are the future of this nation, yet they are left hopeless, with no jobs and no prospects,” he stated, conveying the urgency of taking action to empower young people and provide them with opportunities for growth.
He called upon the international community to take note of the deteriorating situation in Freetown and to pressure the SLPP government to prioritize the needs of its citizens. “We cannot continue to live in a society where the government fails to deliver on its promises,” Kamara urged, seeking solidarity in correcting the course for Sierra Leone.
Kamara’s remarks coincide with the lead-up to upcoming elections, where discontentment with the ruling party is expected to shape voter sentiment. The APC has positioned itself as the alternative, advocating for a return to policies that ensure stability, economic growth, and social welfare.
As the APC prepares for the political battles ahead, Mohamed Pope Kamara’s forthright critique of the SLPP administration serves as both a rallying cry and a cautionary tale, urging all Sierra Leoneans to reflect critically on governance and to demand accountability from their leaders. His assertion that Freetown has become “the darkest city on earth” encapsulates the despair felt by many citizens while simultaneously igniting a call to action for change.
The reality is that as long as the issues of energy insufficiency, poverty, and corruption persist, Freetown will continue to grapple with challenges that demand urgent redress.
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