By VOS Writer
The Kush epidemic gripping SierraLeone has reached alarming levels, prompting urgent calls from patriotic citizens for Government to take decisive action to address the menace.
Joining other patriotic citizens to raise their voices for action to be taken, the Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Dr. Abass Bundu expressed concerns, urging for action to be taken against the manufacturers, importers, and distributors of the synthetic drug, Kush.
“Some of these people are known by the authorities and action must be taken now and we must tolerate no sacred cow,” he said.
Dr. Bundu called for concerted action at national, regional, and international levels to deal effectively with the manufacture, distribution, and marketing of synthetic drugs across borders noting that youths will only use the drugs when they are available and emphasizing the urgent need for new policies from Government and legislations from Parliament.
“Unless this is done quickly, the menace will continue to grow, and soon it will become a serious threat to our national security and the future of our nation,” he added.
The Speaker therefore called on all relevant committees of Parliament to work together and propose prompt and effective measures to address the problem. He said the delay will compound the problem as it will grow more and more dangerous and consume the whole country.
“Action must come from within the country, and we should not depend on outsiders to come and solve this problem for us. So, let’s galvanize the necessary national efforts,” he ended.
However, the Speaker concerns resonate with NGC who has outlined five-point action aimed at tackling the crisis head on.
In a recent statement issued by NGC, the party urges President Bio and his administration to recognize the severity of the situation and implement the following measures immediately.
- Declaration of National Emergency on Kush:
The NGC is urging the government to declare a national emergency, unlocking vital resources and raising national awareness to effectively combat the epidemic.
- Disruption of the Supply Chain:
Stringent measures must be implemented to target and dismantle the supply chain of Kush, preventing its flow into communities.
- Apprehension and Prosecution of Criminal Entities:
Law enforcement agencies must conduct a thorough crackdown to apprehend and prosecute the kingpins driving the Kush trade, ensuring impartial justice.
- Establishment of Rehabilitation Facilities:
The construction of dedicated rehabilitation facilities nationwide is imperative to provide specialized care and aid in societal reintegration.
- Recognition of the Scale of the Crisis:
The NGC called on the Government of President Bio to approach the Kush issue as a severe public health crisis, requiring a comprehensive strategy akin to other national epidemics.
The NGC also highlighted the shortcomings of the National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency, citing operational paralysis due to insufficient staffing and resources.
Expressing condemnation for the government’s perceived passivity, the NGC criticized tokenistic online statements and called for tangible action. “This crisis requires proactive leadership and sustainable initiatives,” emphasized Tarawally.
Amidst socio-economic challenges, particularly affecting the youth, the NGC underscored the need for job creation, strengthened education and healthcare systems, and inspired hope for a brighter future.
The NGC concluded by reaffirming its commitment to supporting a concerted national effort to eliminate the Kush scourge and restore societal foundations for prosperity.
