Opposition Leader Allieu Iscandri Accuses Speaker of Sidestepping Parliamentary Rules
Opposition leader Dr Allieu Iscandri has accused the Speaker of Parliament of disregarding legislative procedure by advancing a bill that allegedly failed to secure the constitutionally required two-thirds majority, warning of potential Supreme Court action if the ruling party continues its pattern of governance.
Dr Iscandri, leader of the National Grand Coalition (NGC), made the remarks during an appearance on AYV Media’s “Wake Up Sierra Leone” program, where he levelled multiple criticisms at the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP).
The opposition leader asserted that the Speaker, whom he characterised as an SLPP appointee, knowingly permitted a bill to proceed despite lacking the requisite supermajority support. Dr Iscandri further claimed the ongoing constitutional review process reflects the ruling party’s aspirations rather than the will of the people.
“When we elect someone as Speaker of Parliament, we expect them to know the law,” Dr Iscandri said. “What I saw in Parliament was nothing but a charade.”
Dr Iscandri accused the SLPP government of attempting to perpetuate its rule through the misuse of state resources, stating that the opposition would pursue legal action in the Supreme Court if such practices continue.
Under Sierra Leone’s constitution, the Supreme Court has exclusive original jurisdiction in matters relating to the enforcement or interpretation of any constitutional provision and on whether Parliament has acted in excess of its power. Constitutional amendments require a two-thirds majority, with certain provisions necessitating a national referendum.
The parliamentary Speaker has previously urged all parties to maintain calm and adhere to procedural discipline during constitutional review proceedings.