By Prince J Musa in Kenema
Outgoing Mayor of Kenema Thomas Karim Baio has expressed his commitment to help continue supporting the council in times of need as he bids the people farewell following a directive from the Local government Ministry for Mayors and council Chairpersons to quit their offices by the 1 of March this year.
Baio made this statement on the 24th of February 2023 whilst outlining the achievements they’ve made as a council before the ends his tenure. He mentioned fencing of the police station, refurbishing the clock tower, and construction of a mini park as some of the projects undertaken during his term.
He also highlighted the construction of 30 stores at Dakiyia Street and informed the gathering that the ministry has approved the construction of another 30 stores. These he noted will generate revenue for the council and reduce over reliance on the central government for funds.
The Chief Administrator Kenema City Council Joseph G.T Gando said that the focus of the council is providing quality services and that building infrastructures for public utilization is an integral component of their service deliveries.
Speaking on behalf of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), Augustin Sannoh said they appreciate some of the tangible developments done by the council and that as civil society, it was the first time to see politician reporting at the end of their stewardship including how they used money meant for the people.
He said they believe in evidence-based reporting, stating that they will continue to relate with the council since they as CSOs monitor most of the projects that are implemented.
He asked the administrator of the council to provide accurate financial statements to the people, so that those succeeding the outgoing council won’t start playing blame game.
Sannoh called on political parties to present people that are capable of developing the country. “It is about us, do not give us candidates that do not have the capacity to facilitate development for the people, only depending on the meager resources that come to the council’’, said Sannoh.
He said the people will be disappointed if political parties present persons that lack the capacity to bring development.
Copyright © 2023 Politico Online (27/02/23)
