Freetown, 8th April 2026 — Mayors and chairpersons of All People’s Congress (APC)-led local councils have expressed grave concern over what they describe as attempts to undermine accountability in World Bank-funded projects, warning that recent gains in decentralization and governance risk being eroded.
In a joint statement, the local council leaders highlighted the progress achieved under the Accountable Governance for Basic Service Delivery Project (AGBSDP), noting that over the past two decades, World Bank support has invested hundreds of millions of dollars in strengthening local government systems.
Achievements cited include the rollout of the new PFM Smart accounting software across all 22 councils, provision of solar systems and internet connectivity, development of fiscal decentralization policies, and disbursement of development grants that have funded more than 50 critical infrastructure projects such as schools, health centers, and water facilities.
However, the APC-led councils say these gains are now at risk following a letter from the Ministry of Finance dated April 1, 2026, which they allege seeks to create “legal ambiguity” and empower the Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs (MLGCA) to interfere in the financial management of opposition-led councils. They argue that such moves could jeopardize donor funds, including the delayed Round 3 development grants, and erode citizens’ trust in democratic governance.
The mayors further accused the government of attempting to impose interim political heads in APC-controlled councils, citing the controversial appointment of an acting mayor at Freetown City Council as a precedent. They insist that this decision is not supported by existing laws and undermines the electorate’s mandate.
Despite political tensions, the APC councils emphasized their contributions to the successful rollout of donor-funded reforms, including signing subsidiary agreements for earlier rounds of grants and engaging stakeholders to resolve challenges. They warned that they will not accept responsibility for any misuse of World Bank funds implemented under what they describe as “illegally imposed leadership.”
“Decentralization has been built over two decades of reforms and donor support. We cannot allow political interference to reverse these gains,” the statement read, reaffirming their commitment to transparency while calling on the World Bank to take note of the developments.
