The recent audit reports for 2022 and 2023 have revealed massive corruption involving government officials, including abuse of office, improper staff recruitment, and payments to government officials without supporting documents or verification, mismanagement of public funds, and misuse of government vehicles.
The 2023 audit report highlights more alarming issues compared to the 2022 report, sparking widespread public concern. This has occurred despite President Julius Maada Bio’s administration’s proclaimed efforts to combat corruption in Sierra Leone.
In the midst of this, many are questioning the absence of new music from Emmerson Bockarie, a renowned Sierra Leonean musician, who has not released songs for nearly two years.
Emmerson Bockarie began his music career in the aftermath of Sierra Leone’s civil war in 2002, using the local Krio language to create songs targeting corruption and advocating for social change. His first single, “Yu Go See Am,” exposed the greed of government officials who enriched themselves at the expense of ordinary citizens.
The then-president, Ahmad Tejan Kabbah, reportedly remarked that it was better for young people to sing about these issues than to resort to rebellion, referencing the country’s history of child and youth soldiers during the war.
Veteran journalist and publisher of Whispers Newspaper, Mr. Prince Coker, has praised Emmerson’s music for its significant impact on governance and public accountability in Sierra Leone.
“Emmerson’s songs have been a great help to Sierra Leone. They’ve discouraged some government officials from embezzling public funds and misusing state properties,” said Mr. Coker.
He added, “His music addresses the real issues affecting ordinary Sierra Leoneans. Emmerson has been consistent in his criticism and advocacy for change without bias towards any government.”
Emmerson’s most recent album, “9 Lives,” and the hit song “Kokonat Ed” educated Sierra Leoneans about governance and accountability. His absence from the music scene has left a gap in public advocacy through art. Many citizens are now calling for his return to continue being a voice for change in these challenging times. Questions have been in public domain as; why Emerson has never release an album or a single song for the past two years now? Had he been bribe by the government of Sierra Leone?
As Sierra Leone grapples with corruption and governance issues, the public hopes that Emmerson will once again use his music to hold leaders accountable and inspire positive change.
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