Freetown, 14th July, 2026 — Deputy Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Aaron Aruna Koroma, has raised concerns over the proposed Joint Venture Agreement between the Ministry of Information and Civic Education and Diming Yimo Printing Group, warning that the deal could undermine Sierra Leone’s private printing industry if not carefully reviewed.
Speaking during Tuesday’s parliamentary debate on the ratification of the agreement signed on March 24, 2026, the Tonkolili District lawmaker stressed that Parliament’s duty is not only to approve agreements but to scrutinize them in the national interest.
“This agreement, as it stands, risks creating an unfair competitive environment,” Hon. Koroma cautioned. “Granting exclusive printing rights to one investor for ten years, alongside tax waivers and duty exemptions, could force many private printing companies out of business.”
He highlighted several shortcomings in the document, including the absence of a commencement date. While the agreement states when it was signed, Koroma noted that it fails to specify when its provisions will take effect.
“That omission is a serious flaw. In contract law, commencement dates are fundamental. Without it, we risk confusion and disputes over implementation,” he argued.
The Deputy Opposition Leader also dismissed claims that the Government Printing Department had become defunct, insisting that it continues to produce gazettes, budget speeches, bills, and presidential statements.
“The problem is not capacity. The problem is government neglect. Instead of abandoning the department, we should be investing in and strengthening it,” Koroma said.
He questioned the fairness of the proposed 70-30 revenue-sharing formula, pointing out that the Government is contributing land, buildings, machinery, skilled personnel, and tax incentives, while the private investor’s financial input is estimated at just Le5 billion.
“This imbalance is troubling. Before finalizing such a formula, there must be an independent valuation of the Government’s contributions. Only then can we determine whether the arrangement is truly fair,” he urged.
Koroma further proposed that the agreement be subject to a mandatory review after five years, rather than locking in exclusive rights for a decade.
“Periodic reviews are essential. They allow us to assess performance and renegotiate terms if necessary. Without them, we risk being tied to an unfavorable deal for too long,” he warned.
He also expressed concern over Clause 21, which requires the Government to facilitate legislation within three months.
“No agreement should dictate Parliament’s legislative agenda. The Constitution gives Parliament sole authority to decide how and when laws are enacted. This clause undermines that principle,” Koroma declared.
In conclusion, Hon. Koroma urged the Government to undertake a comprehensive valuation of all assets and incentives committed to the joint venture, including land, infrastructure, equipment, and tax concessions.
“Transparency, fairness, accountability, and value for money must guide this process. The victims of today could be any of us tomorrow if we fail to act responsibly,” he said.
Despite his concerns, Koroma clarified that he would not oppose ratification but insisted that the Government must address the identified shortcomings to safeguard Sierra Leone’s printing industry and protect taxpayers’ interests.
