Sierra Leone’s State Lottery faces stronger accountability measures in 2026 as parliament pushes for better salary payments, stronger financial transparency and long-term governance across the sector.

The Parliamentary Committee on Trade and Industry focused more on the State Lottery after concerns of over nearly ten months of unpaid staff salaries. Local reports said employees have gone for months without pay. This made legislators question how the operator was handling its contractual obligations.

The committee issued a 24-hour ultimatum to Johnny Kouza, CEO of Accord Logistics, demanding immediate payment of outstanding salaries. The lawmakers warned that failure to comply will trigger further parliamentary action and possible legal consequences.

Committee Chairperson Veronica Sesay, warned the lottery firm at the parliamentary summons. She warned, “We are mandating you to pay within 24 hours and provide the joint account details between Accord Logistics and Sierra Leone Lottery. Failing to do so, you will regret it.”

The oversight committee requested full disclosure of the joint account held between Accord Logistics and the State Lottery. They stressed that worker protection and stronger oversight under public-private agreements remained the priority. Parliament’s intervention reflects wider concern over transparency, salary compliance and governance standards within the state-backed lottery structure.

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The 2022 Agreement

The latest scrutiny builds on the joint venture agreement ratified in 2022. This, between the Sierra Leone State Lottery Company Limited, the Government of Sierra Leone through the National Commission for Privatization and Accord Logistics. The aim was to work together for the development of the country’s gaming and betting sector.

The 2022 agreement was to support sector development, strengthen operational oversight and improve local employment opportunities. As well as, ensuring compliance and long-term public benefit.

Parliament continued oversight discussions with State Lottery stakeholders in April 2026. Further reinforcing legislative attention on the sector and signaling that governance reforms remain a priority.

This year Sierra Leone’s lottery sector, 2026 is being defined by parliament’s push for salary compliance, financial transparency and tighter operational oversight across the State Lotter.