By Mahamood Fofana
Sierra Leoneans are expressing growing frustration over rising living costs, as citizens question both the government and the main opposition for failing to effectively represent the people. The recent decision by the Petroleum Regulatory Authority (PRA) to increase fuel pump prices from NLe 25 to NLe 28.50 per litre—a 14 percent hike—has intensified public outcry.
Edmond Abu, Executive Director of the Native Consortium and Research Centre, condemned the government in a viral video for implementing the increase at a time when the global oil market is stable and the exchange rate shows no significant volatility. He argued that the move is unreasonable, insensitive, and unjustifiable, highlighting a recent TikTok meeting between President Julius Maada Bio and oil marketers where Abu claims the outcome “lacked consideration for the welfare of the people.” He further suggested that fuel dealers sell at NLe 22–23 per litre, asserting that the government’s ceiling price is too high and burdens ordinary citizens.
Abu did not spare the opposition, the All People’s Congress (APC), criticizing the party for focusing solely on the next elections in 2028 while neglecting the immediate needs of the people. “The so-called opposition is more concerned with constitutional reviews and political maneuvering than alleviating the hardship faced by citizens,” he said.
The activist warned that the combined inaction of both the ruling party and the opposition demonstrates that “these two dominant parties are not fit for purpose.” He called on citizens to recognize the systemic failure of both parties, which, he argues, has stalled Sierra Leone’s development since independence in 1961.
In the streets of Makeni, residents expressed anxiety over the new fuel prices, citing the domino effect on the cost of goods ahead of Ramadan. “When fuel prices rise, everything else skyrockets. With Ramadan just a month away, I fear how prices will impact families. The government is not thinking about the masses, only itself and its allies,” said Sorie Kargbi, a local trader.
The combination of rising fuel costs, inflation, and perceived political neglect has created mounting public discontent. Citizens are calling for urgent government intervention to mitigate hardships, while also demanding that the opposition take its role seriously in advocating for the welfare of ordinary Sierra Leoneans. Edmond Abu’s comments highlight growing frustration among civil society and the public over the apparent disconnect between political elites and the daily struggles of the people
