By Mohamed Sankoh

An attempt to smear the image of the newly appointed Managing Director of the Sierra Leone National Shipping Company (SLNSC), Mr. Mustapha Mark Lissa, has dramatically backfired following the publication of a misleading article in two local tabloids on Wednesday, 11th June 2025.

The headlines in question read: “New MD Accused of Reversing Gains at Sierra Leone National Shipping Company” and “What’s Happening at SLNSC?”

Contrary to the false claims of reversing progress at the institution, there has been no such regression under Mr. Lissa’s leadership. In fact, he has rapidly improved staff welfare and company operations. Regarding the alleged irregular reinstatement of former employees, Company Secretary Sahr K.F. Davowah Esq. clarified that the Board of Directors, legally mandated to approve key appointments, duly sanctioned the hiring of staff, including the Internal Auditor, Administrative Executive, and Chief Accountant.

Mr. Davowah emphasized that no legal provision prohibits the rehiring of former employees if they possess the required qualifications and competence. He explained that the former Internal Auditor had voluntarily resigned, making the position vacant and open for competitive recruitment.

Highlighting the evolving structure of the company, Mr. Davowah noted that the Administrative Executive role was introduced within the Shipping Department to strengthen operational oversight. With SLNSC transitioning into a full-fledged agency, appointing a Chief Accountant to support the Financial Controller has become vital for efficient financial management.

He further explained that the individuals appointed—including the former Internal Auditor and Administrative Executive had gained further experience in other agencies, qualifying them for re-engagement based on merit. The former Chief Accountant, who also previously worked at SLNSC, reapplied for the position after holding similar roles in various institutions.

One of the notable achievements under Mr. Lissa’s short tenure is the successful commissioning of a brand-new 100 KVA generator, ending years of operational disruptions due to the lack of a standby power supply.

Additionally, Mr. Lissa played a key role in facilitating the enactment of the Sierra Leone National Shipping Agency Act of 2025. Staff welfare has also improved, with each employee now receiving one bag of rice monthly, and plans underway to introduce official staff uniforms to enhance professionalism and reduce impersonation.

Widely praised by staff for his visionary leadership, Mr. Lissa continues to emphasize that employees are the most valuable asset of any institution. Allegations of corruption, favouritism, or illegal rehiring have proven unfounded, ultimately exposing the blackmail attempt as a failed and desperate smear campaign.