By Lemuella Tarawallie
The Parliamentary Oversight Committee on Works and Public Assets has expressed strong concern over the presence of foreign contractors working on major road projects in Sierra Leone without valid work permits.
The Committee, chaired by Deputy Leader of Government Business, Hon. Bashiru Silikie, described the situation as unacceptable and a clear violation of the country’s laws and the authority of Parliament.
The issue emerged during a committee hearing with officials from the Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA) and contractors handling key infrastructure projects. These include the reconstruction of the Tikonko–Mattru Jong Road, Tikonko–Kpetema Road, Bo–Tikonko Road, Badajuma–Pujehun Road, Bumpeh Taabe Bridge, Taima–Njala Road, and the Kabala–Falaba Limbaya Junction.
Contracts for these projects were awarded to companies such as Salbcon, Chico, and First Tricon. However, the Committee discovered that several foreign personnel engaged on these projects do not have valid work or residence permits.
“We wrote to you on April 1, 2026, and gave you ample notice,” Hon. Silikie said during the hearing. “When we call you to account, you must respond. You are working for the people of this country.”
He warned that failure to comply with Parliament’s directives could lead to arrests, describing such actions as contempt of Parliament.
Hon. Silikie also questioned the conduct of foreign nationals operating without proper documentation. “I cannot go to China or Senegal and start working without a permit. Why should it be different here?” he asked.
During the session, the Chair placed a phone call to the Minister of Labour on loudspeaker, demanding immediate action and instructing that relevant officials appear before the Committee. He also directed foreign contractors to comply fully with the law.
The Committee has ordered all contractors to return with detailed documentation, including valid work permits, residence permits, and a complete list of foreign personnel. Those found in violation are expected to face penalties.
Supporting the Chair’s position, Hon. Ambrose Maada Lebby warned that some contractors could be barred from operating in the country. “Some contractors should not even be doing business in Sierra Leone,” he said, adding that strict actions would be recommended after the review.
In response, the Director General of the SLRA acknowledged the concerns and pledged cooperation. He noted that while progress has been made in road construction nationwide, challenges such as funding constraints continue to affect delivery.
“We are pleased to be here,” he said. “These oversight exercises help guide our work, but funding remains a major challenge. With more support, we can deliver better roads for the people.”
Despite these assurances, the Committee maintained a firm stance, emphasizing that compliance with Sierra Leone’s labour and immigration laws is non-negotiable.
The hearing is set to continue this week, with contractors expected to reappear before the Committee with the required documentation. Parliament has warned that failure to comply will result in serious consequences.
