Mohamed Kamarainba Mansaray, the outspoken opposition figure currently facing a bench warrant in Sierra Leone, has taken aim at the government following what he describes as a surge in political appointments at a time when many citizens are struggling to cope with worsening economic conditions.
In a statement shared on his Facebook page, Kamarainba accused President Julius Maada Bio of awarding “twenty-three SLPP party members within a week” to what he called lucrative, high-salary public positions. His remarks come at a moment when concerns about inflation, unemployment, and living standards are dominating public conversations across the country.
Kamarainba argued that these appointments show misplaced priorities at a time when families are struggling to make ends meet. He framed the new postings as acts of political patronage, rather than merit-based selections meant to strengthen public institutions.
The government has not responded publicly to these claims, though officials have in the past defended new appointments as necessary steps in support of ongoing reforms and staffing gaps. Still, the criticism taps into a sentiment many Sierra Leoneans openly discuss: the growing disparity between the cost of living and their capability to manage everyday expenses.
Kamarainba’s comments carry added weight because of his own controversial history. Once one of the most vocal opposition voices in Sierra Leonean politics, he was imprisoned in 2020 over an alleged sexual assault case before receiving medical leave to seek treatment in the United States. His failure to return has resulted in an active bench warrant, though he continues to comment on national affairs from abroad.
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The issue he raised touched deeper frustrations for many Sierra Leoneans. In this environment of economic struggle, questions of governance, equity, and public accountability continue to raise passions in both political and social spheres.
He referred to several appointments, which have not been formally opposed; however, his comments have fed into a wider national debate on decisions about leadership and daily realities for all people.
