By John Bangura
Dr. Ibrahim Bangura issued a statement today calling for a full-scale and transparent investigation into the fire incident at State House on Saturday. He said the investigation was necessary to determine whether it resulted from negligence, structural decay, or other factors.
The Ministry of Information and Communications had earlier put out a statement, stating that the inferno affected the west wing of the 4th floor and the 3rd floor. It says the office of the president, situated on the 2nd floor, remains intact.
Dr. Bangura expressed deep concern over this incident, describing it as a “tragic event that raises urgent questions about the preparedness, oversight, and accountability of our national institutions.” He said the destruction of offices within the State House, the seat of the presidency and a symbol of the state’s capacity, is a “blow to the institutional integrity that sustains our democracy.”
Highlighting a series of recent fire outbreaks in the capital, including incidents at the Baimbrace community, Dundas Street, and the special care baby unit at Makeni Government Hospital, Dr. Bangura pointed to a “systemic failure” in preventive planning and response to early warnings.
“The people of Sierra Leone have a right to know,” Dr. Bangura stated, stressing the importance of transparency and accountability to restore public confidence in governance. He further called for this incident to serve as a catalyst for real reform, urging all political parties to prioritize the safety and resilience of public institutions.
Dr. Bangura’s recommendations include strengthening emergency response systems, investing in modern fire prevention technologies, and ensuring government facilities are protected by robust protocols and infrastructure. He said the fire should be a “wake-up call” for both those in power and every citizen, urging them to demand better and build a more resilient Sierra Leone.
He extended his gratitude to the firefighters and first responders who worked to extinguish the fire, acknowledging their dedication and sacrifices. Dr. Bangura concluded his statement with a vision for a future where such tragedies are prevented, stating, “Let this be our moment of reckoning and resolve to address it, with a focus that is firmly on the future.”