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Parliament of Sierra Leone has commenced efforts to introduce a comprehensive healthcare and insurance scheme for Members of Parliament (MPs), in a move aimed at improving the welfare and working conditions of lawmakers.
The initiative was announced during the parliamentary sitting on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, after the Leader of Government Business, Hon. Mathew Nyuma, moved a motion that was seconded by the Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Abdul Kargbo.
Presiding over the sitting, the Rt. Hon. Speaker of Parliament, Segepoh Solomon Thomas, disclosed that the Clerk of Parliament and his team are drafting the proposed scheme, which will be presented to the House for debate and approval.
Speaker Thomas said Parliament has a responsibility to ensure that lawmakers have access to adequate healthcare, noting that the demands of legislative work often expose MPs to significant physical, mental, and financial pressures. He stressed that the deaths of several former Members of Parliament underscore the need for stronger welfare measures.
Hon. Nyuma described the proposal as a long-overdue intervention, arguing that improving the conditions of service for MPs is consistent with the provisions of Section 74(4) of the Constitution of Sierra Leone, 1991. He called for the operationalisation of constitutional provisions relating to lawmakers’ welfare and noted that several parliaments across the region already provide similar support for their members.
Supporting the motion, Opposition Leader Hon. Abdul Kargbo highlighted the health challenges faced by lawmakers, revealing that several MPs in the previous Parliament reportedly suffered strokes linked to work-related stress. He also expressed concern over the deaths of some legislators who, he said, were unable to access adequate medical care due to financial constraints.
Hon. Kargbo further disclosed that he is managing high blood pressure, describing it as an indication of the health risks associated with parliamentary responsibilities. He urged Parliament to act without delay to safeguard the wellbeing of its members.
As part of the broader welfare agenda, Speaker Thomas also proposed the establishment of a special development fund for district blocks to enable MPs to respond more effectively to pressing needs within their constituencies.
The proposed healthcare and insurance scheme is expected to be tabled before Parliament in the coming weeks for consideration and approval as lawmakers seek to strengthen institutional support for members serving in the House.
