President Koroma meets with APC/North America Chapter executives
By Dennis Kabatto – Sierra Leone’s President Dr. Ernest B. Koroma held a momentous meeting Tuesday with dozens of All People’s Congress – APC/North America Chapter executives at the Washington, DC residence of Mr. Bokari Kortu Stevens, Sierra Leone’s ambassador to the United States of America.
APC North America Chapter executives listen to President Koroma’s address in Washington
President Koroma, who is currently on a weeklong visit in America – to share Ebola Recovery Plans at IMF-World Bank Group Spring Meetings scheduled for Friday – addressed his party stalwarts on issues ranging from the devastation of lives and the country’s economy by Ebola, gratitude for the invaluable support by the international community, to achievements and ongoing developments by his administration.
He briefly discussed the political turmoil created by the sacking of Vice President Alhaji Sam Sumana which his critics say is unconstitutional.
“The party investigated without any malice. As a president, I took an action that is within the constitution. People may want to talk on social media, but social media is not my constitution,” President Koroma declared, drawing rapturous applause in the basement level of Ambassador Stevens’ residence.
Reiterating the importance of party unity, he urged party members to unite, as it is crucial for the survival of the APC during this tumultuous political period.
On transparency, President Koroma argued that his administration is fully committed, “We are consistent with the measures we take, and we have strengthened accountability by passing the 2008 Anti-Corruption Act. In addition, prior to 2007 there was no annual auditor’s report,” President Koroma said.
The president also announced some of his Ebola recovery plans including an assessment of solar energy in all chiefdoms and major communities to get electricity, construction of airports and other unspecified major projects in Koindu, Kailahun, state caring for Ebola survivors, and orphans, the return of pregnant girls to school after delivery of babies etc.
His post Ebola proposals for education were the most ambitious highlighting a two year tuition fee waivers for government subsidized schools, reduction of classroom sizes, expansion of school nutrition programs, upgrade infrastructure and train more teachers.
“I’m committed by mandate until my second term in office is done. The question of who should succeed Ernest Koroma, the answer is in the hands of God,” the president said.
The president did not field any questions after his address.
