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The Leader of Government Business in Parliament, Hon. Matthew Sahr Nyuma, has urged Members of Parliament to support the Government’s decision to discontinue criminal proceedings against former President Dr Ernest Bai Koroma, describing the move as a major step towards peace, reconciliation, and national unity.
Moving a Private Member’s Motion in Parliament, which was seconded by the Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Abdul Kargbo, Hon. Nyuma said his action was not driven by political interests but by a desire to promote stability and national cohesion.
“I have not moved this motion to please anyone or seek political favour. I am acting according to my conscience because history and posterity will judge us by the decisions we take today,” he stated.
Hon. Nyuma said Parliament’s adoption of Parliamentary Diplomacy demonstrates the importance of dialogue in resolving political differences, adding that reconciliation must go beyond words and reflect the values of forgiveness and unity.
He referenced his participation in the Africa-EU Parliamentary Assembly in Eswatini, where he said Parliamentary Diplomacy helped ease tensions during discussions involving Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. He stressed that dialogue remains essential in resolving conflicts, particularly within African societies.
The Majority Leader warned that political divisions should not undermine national unity, stating that “our similarities are greater than our differences” and that political parties must not become tools for division.
He described Sierra Leone’s political history since 1967 as being marked by mistrust and hostility, calling for greater respect and cooperation among political leaders. He also praised veteran politician Hon. Dr Michael Abdulai Mansaray for demonstrating political maturity and civility.
On the legal basis for discontinuing the proceedings against Dr Koroma, Hon. Nyuma referenced the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, stating that the decision was grounded in the Constitution and the Public Elections Act, 2024. He maintained that the motion does not interfere with judicial independence but reflects Parliament’s support for peace and reconciliation.
Hon. Nyuma also praised President Julius Maada Bio for what he described as courageous leadership in prioritising national interest, while acknowledging former President Ahmad Tejan Kabbah’s role in Sierra Leone’s democratic transition. He further commended former ECOWAS Parliament Speaker Sidie Mohamed Tunis for advancing Parliamentary Diplomacy in the region.
He called for constitutional reforms to address ambiguities surrounding the removal of Vice Presidents and urged Government to provide support and compensation for families of security personnel affected during the 26 November 2023 attempted coup.
Referencing Sierra Leone’s post-war reconciliation efforts, Hon. Nyuma said the successful reintegration of former combatants through the Truth and Reconciliation Commission demonstrated the country’s ability to embrace forgiveness and healing.
He concluded by urging MPs to rise above political differences and embrace reconciliation as a national responsibility.
In a symbolic gesture, he invited the Leader of the Opposition and Paramount Chief Members of Parliament to join him before the Speaker’s Chair for a handshake, which was welcomed by the House as a sign of unity and commitment to peace and democratic governance.
