Former Bong County District #7 Representative Joseph P. Kolleh, has called for transparency, and accountability over a reported 20 percent allocation from China Union.
The 20 percent is intended for the three mineral-producing districts of Lower Bong County to improve their livelihoods.
Kolleh previously served as chairman of the county Legislative Caucus.
He said, the arrangement was established during his tenure, and involved all nine members of the legislative delegation.
Kolleh: “Members of the caucus reached, and signed an agreement providing that 20 percent of funds paid by China Union would be allocated to Lower Bong County before the remaining amount was distributed.”
He said, the arrangement was designed to benefit Sanoyea, Fuamah, and Salala districts, “because of their connection to mining activities, and mineral production.”
Kolleh said, the three districts benefited from the arrangement during his chairmanship, with funds reportedly supporting various community needs.
Among the reported uses, he said, part of the resources provided additional medicines for hospitals, and clinics serving the locals.
He also said, community radio stations in the area benefited from the arrangement, helping to improve communication, and information dissemination.
However, Kolleh expressed concern over a lack of clarity surrounding the current status of the 20 percent allocation.
For that, he now called on the current lawmakers representing the affected areas to provide information on the status, and management of the funds.
He wants citizens to know whether the agreement remains in effect, how much China Union has paid under the arrangement, and how much has been allocated to that part of the county.
Kolleh has meanwhile, demanded clarity on how the reported allocation has been distributed among Sanoyea, Fuamah, and Salala, and what projects, or services have benefited from the resources.
