Members of Sierra Leone’s sixth parliament convened for their first meeting, during which leaders and members of various committees were appointed, despite the absence of elected opposition All People’s Congress (APC) MPs.
Abass C. Bundu, assuming the role of Speaker of Parliament, will also serve as chairman of the Parliamentary Service Committee and the Selection Committee in the new parliament.
In his acceptance speech on Tuesday, July 18, 2023, the Speaker captivated the attention of the gathered MPs, urging them to be proactive and diligent. He shared his personal journey, emphasizing that he achieved success through determination rather than privilege.
Honorable Matthew Nyuma, the Leader of Government Business and the Majority Leader of Parliament was appointed as chairman of both the Business Committee and the Appointment Committee.
In his remarks to the Speaker, he expressed gratitude and extended congratulations on the Speaker’s re-election, highlighting the accomplishments of the fifth parliament under the Speaker’s leadership.
Honourable Sahr Emerson Lamina, alongside other MPs, was appointed as a member of crucial committees in parliament. In his statement, he appealed to his opposition APC colleagues, urging them to consider parliament as their home and to fulfill the trust placed in them by the electorate.
However, one notable absence from the committee appointments was first-time MP Honourable Rachael Sesay Pessima from Port Loko. Nonetheless, she delivered a compelling speech that resonated throughout the house. Expressing gratitude and congratulations to the re-elected Speaker, she acknowledged the challenges of winning in an opposition stronghold like Port Loko. Pessima attributed their success to President Bio’s hard work, asserting that the progress made by the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) would make the upcoming 2028 election difficult for the APC.
Honourable Mohamed Bangura of the APC, who was not present during the committee appointments, was also fortunate to be appointed to key committees established in the sixth parliament.