Corruption at Defence Ministry
Soldiers say of disapproval ‘Indict Defence Ministry officials of overindulging into unwholesome conduct in the deduction of monies set aside as allowance for United Nations peacekeepers.’
It has reached this press that soldiers on peace mission in Darfur/Sudan receive US$450 in place of the US$1,028 as allowance.
Findings say the United Nations, on a flat rate, offers US$1,028 as allowance per personnel in countries contributing troops in Darfur/Sudan.
Sierra Leone being one of countries that contributes troops to the UN peace mission in Darfur deducts US$578 from US$1,028 and submits a pittance of US$450 to its personnel.
Investigation carried out indicates that other African countries deduct just US$200.
Others, we are told, don’t deduct even a cent from the bulk of US$1,028 paid them by the UN for personnel serving as peacekeepers.
Soldiers who spoke on the grounds of anonymity accused officials of the Defence Ministry of building palaces on top of their heads.
“Life in Darfur is rough and tough. The weather condition is harsh,” soldiers disclosed.
“It is disheartening though that our allowances are put into the pockets of officials on grounds unexplainable.”
Sources say the UN also provides funding for troops equipment.
Investigation disclosed that other countries that contribute troops to the UN pay the actual amount due the personnel and at the same time provide them with nourishable food items.
On his part, the Director of Defence, Mani Koroma admits receiving US$1,028 personnel from the UN, but utilizes same for feeding and payment of personnel allowances.
“Samura, I advise you see me Monday at 2:00 pm, so that I can explain to you how the UN operates,” Director Mani said.
It is a fact that soldiers are unhappy over monies paid them as allowance and are allegedly having dissenting views especially against their officials and government.
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