The Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) has delayed its compact development program with Sierra Leone due to concerns over the credibility of the country's recent electoral process. Sierra Leone was previously successful in implementing a threshold program and was designated for a compact program in 2021, which would provide a $450 million grant over five years. However, the MCC requires evidence of commitment to democratic governance principles, including free and fair elections. Recent elections have raised doubts about Sierra Leone's adherence to these principles, leading to the postponement of compact discussions and board endorsement. President Bio has emphasized the importance of the MCC Compact and his government's commitment to reforms. The MCC continues to engage with Sierra Leone to address these concerns, while the U.S. government has announced visa restrictions for individuals undermining democracy in Sierra Leone.

The White House released a statement detailing a meeting between President Joseph Biden and six African leaders, including President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone and others from the DRC, Gabon, Liberia, Madagascar, and Nigeria. The discussion focused on the importance of holding free, fair, and transparent elections in Africa in 2023. President Biden emphasized the significance of elections for democracy and addressed challenges such as foreign interference and political violence. The U.S. has committed over $165 million to support African elections and governance in 2023, with nearly $50 million already allocated to Nigeria and the DRC. Concerns were raised by Ahmed Sahid Nasralla, President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists, regarding the slow and uncertain election-related support in Sierra Leone compared to the previous election cycle.

A three-story building under construction collapsed in Bo, Sierra Leone's second-largest city, leading to fears that dozens of construction workers are missing. Ten individuals have been rescued, some with critical injuries, and may be transferred to a hospital in the capital, Freetown. Over 70 workers were reported to be on site when the building came down on Wednesday. The Sierra Leone Roads Authority had previously attempted to halt the construction due to its location near a major road. Rescuers are currently searching for those who may be trapped under the debris.

Fatmata Edna Kargbo, an aide to the president of Sierra Leone, is under investigation by the country's anti-corruption agency after she showcased her new house and appointment letters in a church in Nigeria. The investigation was sparked by a video of Kargbo's testimony at the Synagogue Church of All Nations, which led to public outrage over the origins of her wealth. Kargbo has been cooperating with the investigation, which is being conducted under the Anti-Corruption Act of 2008, focusing on unexplained wealth by public officials. Despite being ordered to go on leave in August, a presidential media aide claims this is not related to the ongoing investigation.