Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, Hon. Abdul Kargbo, has issued a strong call for the immediate suspension and review of Sierra Leone’s “Citizenship by Investment” initiative, citing grave concerns over national security, sovereignty, and legislative oversight.
The initiative, known as the “Go for Gold” Investment Visa Programme, reportedly allows foreign nationals to acquire residency or even citizenship by paying a set amount from abroad bypassing the rigorous screening and verification traditionally required under Sierra Leonean law.
Speaking during a parliamentary session this week, Hon. Kargbo criticized the scheme as a “potential gateway for abuse,” warning that it risks reducing Sierra Leonean citizenship to a commodity and weakening state control over immigration and national identity.
He expressed alarm at the lack of transparency and the absence of parliamentary debate or public consultation prior to the rollout of the programme.
“This is not just a policy flaw it is a national security red flag,” Kargbo asserted. “Citizenship is not for sale. If this scheme continues unchecked, we risk opening our country to criminal infiltration, money laundering, and geopolitical manipulation.”
He further questioned the legal basis for the initiative, challenging the government to clarify under what constitutional framework it was introduced and who authorized its implementation without legislative approval.
While acknowledging the importance of attracting foreign investment, Hon. Kargbo stressed that such efforts must be aligned with due process and the collective interest of Sierra Leoneans.
He called for a full parliamentary inquiry, urging civil society groups, legal experts, and the security sector to weigh in on the implications of the programme.
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