Before the 2007 elections most of the present generation of Parliamentarians vigorously campaigned to the electorate. They promised them good roads, better medication, improvement of the standard of education, and above all to visit and be with the people at all times.
However, after thorough investigations and research carried out in the Northern region of the country by journalists from Radio Maria and a group of Human Rights activists, it has been revealed that a good number of these Parliamentarians have not kept to their promises nor do they even go to their constituency to meet with their people. Our reporter randomly reached some of these Parliamentarians in order to get their views on the issue.
Hon. Rev. Marie Yansaneh of Bombali District and of constituency 36 explained to Awoko that she had visited her constituency twice every month and that there are other extraordinary meetings, she used to call so as to sound out the opinions of members on issues affecting the constituency.
She further reiterated that it has always been her duty to meet members of her constituency in almost all the villages, more especially so when they are bereaved.
“I built a primary school and a Secondary School for Girls all at Kamakwie and also another Secondary School in Freetown and also an Orphanage”.
Being a true representative of Sella- Limba and Tambaka Chiefdoms, the Rev. Marie Yansaneh explained that she had made available two Tractors to help to ease the farming burden of the people.
“I have provided food and other cooking condiments to Mosque and Churches as a sign of love” she added. She said she is quite aware of the fact that the Roads and bridges in her constituency are bad and dilapidated but “I have discussed it with President Koroma and he has promised to do something about it.”
She added that she recently had an interview with Radio Maria including two representatives from her constituency and that the interview was successful. She said she has no ill feelings concerning the investigation but only that if they had properly carried out their research, “I have no doubt that my people, would say something good about me”.
Hon. David Conteh of Tonkolili District, constituency 63 said he relied on his people who can vouch for his conduct as to whether he is doing well in his constituency or not. “I am not sure if these journalists or researchers had ever visited my constituency”. He said some of the reporters don’t do their job well and that they are always bent on reporting negative things.”
In Port Loko District Hon. Alhaji B. Kamara Parliamentarian for constituency 61 said it is not good to listen to all sorts of media report, since it would divert one from doing exactly what he intends to do. He said his achievements are quite visible and that the people in his constituency can attest to it. “I have constructed and rehabilitated Roads from Feredugu and Kamasondo, and constructed Bridges”. Mr. Kamara also said that he always visits his constituency twice a month to meet and discuss with the people. He said it would be good if the reporters could go from house to house to interview the people and get the correct information.
In Koinadugu District, constituency 46 Hon. Momorie Kamara admitted that he used to visit his constituency but only when it is necessary. He said he started serving his people when he was a councilor and that he has been with them throughout. With regards to development he said he has done exactly what he is capable of doing and other developmental projects would come later. He concluded that “It is a continuous process”.
By Jon-bu