Wage Freeze Proposal for Public Sector Employees in 2026

Wage Freeze Proposal for Public Sector Employees in 2026

The Wages and Compensation Commission of Sierra Leone is currently exploring a potential wage freeze for specific segments of public sector employees in 2026. The Chairman, Alpha Osman Timbo, cited concerns regarding current remuneration levels in the context of the country's prevailing economic conditions.

In a recent media statement, Mr. Timbo indicated the Commission's perspective that certain employees' earnings may exceed a justifiable level. He stated, "In 2026 what we are looking at as a Commission is to make sure that there is a wage freeze for certain categories of employees. We think that what they are earning now is more than enough when you take into consideration the prevailing financial situation of the country."

He highlighted significant structural disparities within the existing wage framework, noting the unusual occurrence of "thousands of people who earn more than the President."

Mr. Timbo explained that while salaries are intended to be comprehensive, covering all entitlements, inconsistencies arise due to additional benefits such as the provision of official vehicles and fuel.

The Commission is collaborating closely with the Ministry of Finance, which is developing the 2026 statement of economic and financial policies for parliamentary submission. Mr. Timbo confirmed, "As Wages and Compensation Commission, we effectively collaborate with the Ministry of Finance with a view to ensuring that the task given to us to look at the wages and structural disparities in the public sector, and we start the process of harmonising them."

While emphasizing that salary reductions are not the primary focus at this juncture, he did not rule out their consideration if deemed necessary. The current focus remains on implementing a wage freeze for categories of employees earning specific high amounts, underscoring the priority of achieving equity within the public sector pay system.

Further updates are anticipated as the Commission proceeds with its consultations ahead of the 2026 policy review process.