In a move that could be regarded as unprecedented, the Sierra Leone People's Party (SLPP) is reported to be on the verge of publishing an alternative budget with a view to boost their reputation as a viable opposition in the country. This was disclosed by a member of the SLPP Parliamentary Caucus, Hon. Paran Tarawallie, during an open debate held in Bo by the BBC Media Action in Sierra Leone.

According to Hon. Tarawallie, the alternative budget will juxtapose the official government budget, adding that the move is in line with their role as an opposition. He said the shadow budget will address many financial gaps inherent in the national budget, with a view to proffering recommendations to government and policy alternatives.

He maintained that the novel oversight budget to be prepared by the SLPP will entail corresponding documents highlighting key issues left out in the national budget, and will serve as a useful opposition tool for debates in Parliament.

The opposition MP further explained that his party is in need of resources to boost their community outreach strategy.

Meanwhile, some opposition MPs have complained about the way and manner in which they are being treated in Parliament. They revealed that the parliamentary administration would always delay the release of order papers ahead of deliberations, which they say is impeding their role as an efficient opposition.

They therefore called on the Clerk of Parliament, Hon. Ibrahim Sesay, to disseminate order papers at least 24 hours before the start of sittings.

In response to the opposition claims, Deputy Speaker and ruling party MP, Hon. Chernoh Bah, welcomed the initiative which he said could provide great fillip to government to work toward nation-building.