The Deputy Chief Whip of the House of Parliament and Chairman of the Committee on Internal Art, Hon. Alusine Kanneh, has voiced his discontent regarding the treatment of Sierra Leoneans by foreigners within the country. His concerns revolve around the perceived mistreatment of Sierra Leonean workers by foreign employers, the inadequate implementation of laws meant to safeguard Sierra Leoneans, and potential biases among Sierra Leonean officials.
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He said that most Sierra Leoneans were mistreated by foreign employers because laws protecting Sierra Leoneans were not properly implemented by the relevant authorities. also found that some foreigners and companies were operating illegally in the country and accused some Sierra Leonean officials of siding with the foreigners against other Sierra Leoneans.“I am confident that in matters such as the wrongful termination of a contract between Sierra Leoneans working for the Department of Labor, that worker will be on the supportive side of that particular foreign company, which is the employer because, after all, he is.
"Anyone who expects anything from this foreign company will abandon their brother in Sierra Leone," he said. Deputy Director Whip said the bill was very good and would empower people. After spending so many years abroad, he realized that the laws there are very strict when they affect their own people and that Sierra Leone should retaliate by protecting Sierra Leoneans from foreigners. The deputy head welcomed the Employment Act 2022, saying the law is the right step in the right direction for citizens but raised concerns about its implementation.
Maltreatment of Sierra Leoneans by Foreign Employers: The Deputy Chief Whip is highlighting a significant issue where Sierra Leoneans are reportedly facing maltreatment from foreign employers. This maltreatment could encompass various forms of mistreatment, such as unfair working conditions, unpaid wages, or even abusive behaviour. The focus on this issue underscores the need for the authorities to address the rights and well-being of Sierra Leonean workers.
Lack of Proper Implementation of Protection Laws: The Deputy Chief Whip suggests that the laws in place to protect Sierra Leonean workers are not being effectively enforced by the responsible authorities. This can result in a lack of accountability for employers who mistreat their employees and can contribute to a culture of impunity.
Illegal Foreign Operations: The Deputy Chief Whip asserts that some foreign individuals and companies are operating illegally within Sierra Leone. This raises concerns about regulatory oversight and the potential negative impacts on both the economy and the local labour force.
Bias and Nepotism: The Deputy Chief Whip expresses concern that some Sierra Leonean officials might show favouritism toward foreigners over their fellow Sierra Leoneans. This potential bias could stem from personal interests or expectations of benefits from foreign companies, thus compromising their duty to protect the rights of Sierra Leonean citizens.
Support for the Employment Act of 2022: While critical of the current situation, the Deputy Chief Whip acknowledges the importance of the Employment Act of 2022. He sees it as a positive step toward empowering citizens and protecting their rights within the workforce.
Concerns Over Implementation: Despite welcoming the Employment Act, the Deputy Chief Whip raises concerns about the effective implementation of the legislation. This highlights the importance of not only passing laws but also ensuring that they are enforced consistently and fairly.
Comparative Legal Systems: The Deputy Chief Whip draws a comparison with other countries where laws protecting citizens' rights are robust and diligently upheld. He emphasizes the need for Sierra Leone to similarly prioritize the protection of its citizens against any form of mistreatment or exploitation.
The Deputy Chief Whip's statements shed light on a range of issues relating to the treatment of Sierra Leoneans by foreigners and the protection of workers' rights. The concerns he raises underline the necessity for effective implementation of existing laws, proper oversight of foreign operations, and the unbiased support of Sierra Leonean officials to safeguard the interests and rights of their fellow citizens.