The Renaissance Movement (RM) has recently published a comprehensive position paper expressing deep concerns regarding the proposed increment in toll gate fees. Embodying its core mission, the movement articulates its stance against this proposal, citing its adverse implications on the already economically strained populace, alongside the absence of transparency and accountability in the decision-making process.

Acknowledging the efforts of the Committee on Works for fostering inclusivity by conducting consultations, RM underscores the importance of incorporating the inputs of all citizens, particularly those directly affected, and various stakeholders into the decision-making process. While commending the significance of these consultations, RM emphasizes the necessity for due consideration of these voices in shaping the final decision.

RM delineates three fundamental points that warrant consideration in the decision-making process regarding toll gate tariff adjustments:

**1. Impact on Citizens:** The proposed increment in toll gate fees disproportionately burdens low-income earners and vulnerable segments of society, exacerbating the socio-economic challenges prevalent in Sierra Leone. Against the backdrop of soaring living costs and inflation rates, any additional financial burden further compounds the hardships faced by ordinary citizens.

**2. Economic Implications:** Beyond individual financial strain, heightened toll gate fees precipitate ripple effects throughout the economy, manifesting in escalated transportation costs for goods and services. This phenomenon engenders inflationary pressures, stymieing economic growth and perpetuating poverty levels. Notably, existing fiscal measures such as duty levies on essential commodities and impending increments therein exacerbate the plight of minimum wage earners.

**3. Transparency and Accountability:** RM underscores the imperative of transparency in toll traffic data, collections, and loan repayment status associated with toll gate investments. Additionally, it urges verification of government's share of toll collections and adherence to development commitments stipulated in agreements. Any proposed increments should adhere to humane limits, fostering national development and reflecting collective ownership of infrastructure.

In its appeal to the Committee on Works, RM advocates for the following considerations in formulating recommendations to the parliament:

**1. Data Transparency:** RM urges the provision of comprehensive data by the Committee on Works to facilitate informed decision-making, encompassing traffic volumes, toll gate collections, and loan statuses. Transparent data not only fosters accountability but also instills confidence in the decision-making process.

**2. Exploring Alternative Revenue Sources:** Recognizing the potential adverse impact of toll gate fee adjustments, RM calls upon the government to explore alternative revenue sources to mitigate the burden on citizens. Proposals include reallocating government revenue and extending toll gate agreements to recoup costs, contingent upon rigorous financial analyses.

In unequivocally opposing any toll gate fee increment lacking transparency, RM underscores its commitment to safeguarding citizen welfare and advancing economic stability. It urges parliament to prioritize citizens' interests in its deliberations.

In conclusion, the Renaissance Movement underscores the significance of transparent, inclusive, and accountable decision-making processes in shaping policies that resonate with the aspirations of Sierra Leoneans.