Corruption will undermine Sierra Leone’s fiscal gains

Significance

The natural disaster has overshadowed recent developmental gains, including the construction of the country’s first toll road. Despite the approval of a new three-year IMF extended credit facility (ECF) of 224.2 million dollars in June, significant development and governance failings have undermined the administration of President Ernest Bai Koroma, whose supporters previously hinted at a third term bid for the incumbent.

Impacts

• A faltering proposed constitutional referendum campaign will further undermine Koroma’s popularity.
• Austerity measures are likely to be relaxed temporarily to help the ruling party retain power in 2018.
• The introduction of an e-procurement system could improve audit trails and accountability in the public service.