On Thursday, April 11th, 2024, in the Chamber of Sierra Leone Parliament, the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Mohamed Lamin Tarawallie Esq., tabled a proclamation by His Excellency Brigadier Retired, Julius Maada Bio, regarding Constitutional Instrument No.1 of 2024.

This instrument pertains to the recent declaration of a public health emergency on Kush and other harmful drugs or substances in the country.

Addressing the parliament, the Majority Leader and Leader of Government Business, Hon. Mathew Sahr Nyuma, emphasized the importance of drafting regulations to accompany the public health emergency proclamation. He urged the Minister to swiftly draft these regulations to guide the implementation of the emergency measures, ensuring clarity and accountability in their enforcement.

Highlighting the need for parliamentary oversight, Hon. Nyuma stressed the importance of avoiding potential blame on Parliament for any missteps in the implementation process. He emphasized the significance of the regulations in guiding legislative action and ensuring that the emergency response is both effective and legally sound.

In response, the Acting Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Daniel Koroma, called for the expedited establishment of a tribunal to address cases related to drug abuse. He urged the Bar Association to contribute recommendations for the tribunal’s structure and operating principles to ensure a fair and transparent judicial process.

Echoing similar sentiments, Hon. Aaron Aruna Koroma, Deputy Leader 2 of the Opposition, advocated for the regulations to be aligned with the state of emergency declared by President Bio. He emphasized the need for a coordinated and comprehensive approach to addressing the drug crisis.

Supporting the call for regulations, Deputy Leader of Government Business, Hon. Bashiru Silikie, underscored the importance of ensuring that the legal framework is in place to support the government’s efforts in combating drug abuse.

The Acting Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas, echoed the sentiment for due process and emphasized the importance of the regulations in effectively implementing the public health emergency measures. He urged the Minister to expedite the drafting of regulations to ensure the timely and efficient response to the drug crisis.