In a session held on Thursday, February 8, 2024, the Parliament of Sierra Leone engaged in a comprehensive debate resulting in the approval, with anonymity, of the Twelfth Report of The Committee on Appointments and The Public Service. Chaired by the Leader of Government Business, Hon. Mathew Sahr Nyuma, the report highlighted the successful approval of several Presidential Nominees.

The nominees include:

Dr. Francess Fornah – Member Board of Trustees, Students Loan Scheme Fund
Mr. Mustapha S. T. Kella – Chairman Fertilizer Regulatory Agency
Mr. Amara Idara Sheriff – Chairman Sierra Leone Seeds Certification Agency
Mr. Saidu Alie Lakoh – Chairman National Youths Commission
Mr. Abdul Samad Kamara – Chairman of the National Youths Service
Mr. Samuel Squire – Member National Communications Authority Board
Madam Sallay Ndimawa Adams – Member National Communications Authority Board
Mr. Joseph Egbenda Kapuwa Esq – Chairman of the Independent Media Commission (IMC)
Mr. Abdulai Massiyambay Bangura Esq – Justice of the Supreme Court
Mr. Abu A. Conteh – Chairman, Allied Health Professional Councils.
Leader of Government Business, in presenting the report, highlighted the thorough vetting process, including assessments of educational backgrounds, track records, declared assets, tax obligations, and other relevant matters.

During the debate, various Members of Parliament expressed appreciation for the nominations, with special commendations to nominees from specific districts. Concerns about drug abuse, especially among youths, were raised, urging authorities to address this menace. Additionally, advice was given to nominees to prioritize the nation’s development.

In a separate development, the Parliament ratified two crucial agreements presented by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Timothy Kabba, on the same day. These include the Convention on Cybercrime and the African Union Convention on Cross-border Cooperation (Niamey Convention).

The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Dr. Abass Chernor Bundu, emphasized the historic nature of President Bio’s appointments, including the first Temne Man as Justice of the Supreme Court under his Speakership as the First Temne Speaker. The ratified agreements were praised for their contribution to the state’s development.