By Ragan M. Conteh

A historic day in the country that is on December 19, 2024 at the official approval of presidential appointees in various institutions.

This ceremony sparked enthusiasm as many of the appointees were able to invite their loved ones to celebrate the occasion.

During the ceremony, Opposition Chief Whip, Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara addressed both appointees and audience.

He firstly reminded  appointees that their positions should not merely be seen as a means of personal enrichment, but rather as an opportunity to live up to the expectations of the public.

He emphasized that any failure on their part to deliver would not only affect the President but will affect their families, including generations yet unborn.

In addition, Hon. Opposition Chief Whip also pointed out that the President had appointed ambassadors to various countries, and so their conducts must align with the standards of the nation.

He expressed his frustration, noting that he had yet to read a single sentence from any ambassador highlighting their positive contributions to the country.

On a separate note, the Opposition Chief Whip further highlighted the challenges faced by the Sierra Leone Water Company (SALWACO). While the company has made significant achievements, he however noted of its leadership changes which have created instabilities, which in turn have negatively impacted the leadership operations.

He said 70% of citizens in the provinces still lack access to safe drinking water.

Even in the capital city, people are relying on sachet water, which has led to the spread of typhoid and other waterborne diseases.

He specifically criticized the merchants in the provinces who produce sachets ofbwater, describing them as contributors to the spread of waterborne diseases.

He recalled a visit to Bo City, where he saw more than seven water factories relying on a single borehole without following proper health precautions.

The producers explained that they could not afford the purified water from SALWACO.

As a result, Hon. Kamara called for SALWACO to offer preferential treatment to these companies, ensuring that the water they produce meets quality standards.

Moreover, Opposition Chief Whip also stressed that political leaders, including himself, have not done enough to address the welfare of the people.

Regardless of political affiliation, he maintain that, the primary goal of politicians should be on improving the lives of all citizens without discrimination.