By Politico staff writer
The outgone Minister of Works and Public Assets Peter Bayuku Konteh, says he is grateful that he was accorded the opportunity to serve the Government and people of Sierra Leone.
He was speaking during the formal handing over of office to his successor Dr. Dennis Sandy and deputy in Freetown.
The event saw the presentation of a comprehensive Handing-Over-Note which outlines the Ministry's functions, ongoing programmes, agencies under its supervision, and its financial status.
Konteh told the gathering that despite the numerous challenges faced, he was pleased with the achievements made with available resources and manpower.
Addressing concerns about the management of government assets, Konteh categorically stated that he had never sold any government assets, granted freehold to anyone, approved unauthorized construction on government land, or rented out confiscated houses. He said the ministry's Internal Audit Unit had diligently cross-checked the items in his office, ensuring transparency and accountability.
He advised that questions related to government assets were to be directed to the National Assets and Government Property Commission, while those to do with road contracts and payments should be addressed to the Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA) management. Financial and project-related queries were to be directed to the Permanent Secretary and the Professional Head of the ministry.
He expressed gratitude to all the numerous departmental staff of the ministry for their professionalism and hard work which he said had been instrumental in driving progress and delivering quality services.
Konteh acknowledged that his ministerial cycle has ended but insisted he will dedicate his life to being a useful citizen and an unwaveringly committed member of the Sierra Leone Peoples Party.
He extended wishes for successful tenure of office to the new minister and deputy and entreated the workers to support their new bosses.
Some members of staff paid glowing tribute to the outgone works minister, recalling his dedication to serving the country and his commitment to transparent and accountable governance.
They described Konteh as a person of integrity, a team player, and result -oriented individual who will be sorely missed.
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