Some Sierra Leoneans have criticized Yusuf Keketoma Sandi, the country's press secretary, for equating Sierra Leone's economic position with that of other African nations. In reaction to a Citizen TV Kenya story, he drew this analogy. The article claims that the Kenyan government is bankrupt and having trouble paying the salaries of its civil personnel because of urgent financial obligations.
Press Secretary Sandi responded on Twitter by writing, "Kenya's Deputy President, Rigathi Gachagua confesses Government of Kenya is broke to pay wages and disburse money to counties. Ghana and Zambia asked the IMF for bailouts in late 2017 totaling $3 billion and $1.3 billion, respectively.
In reaction to a Citizen TV Kenya story, he drew this analogy. The article claims that the Kenyan government is bankrupt and having trouble paying the salaries of its civil personnel because of urgent financial obligations.
Press Secretary Sandi responded on Twitter by writing, "Kenya's Deputy President, Rigathi Gachagua confesses Government of Kenya is broke to pay wages and disburse money to counties. Ghana and Zambia asked the IMF for bailouts in late 2017 totaling $3 billion and $1.3 billion, respectively.
However, many Sierra Leoneans condemned the Press Secretary for the connection he drew in their responses.
"Sierra Leoneans don't reside in Ghana, Kenya, or any of the other countries you named. If you believe that bringing up examples of Ghana will improve conditions in Salone, go ahead. Please tell us about Guinea and Liberia," one user said.
I'm astonished you brought up Zambia. When amid this global expansion Zambia's economy is among the best-performing ones," Yansaneh, Osman
Why not use Guinea as an illustration? Jim Babin enquired.
"What planet are you from, and how did you acquire this knowledge? Before tweeting, make sure you are current, Sall Conteh-Barrie said.
Osman Koroma observed that "those countries asking IMF for BAILOUT are in a better position in their economies than Sierra Leone."