By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The Rt. Hon. Speaker of Parliament, Segepoh Solomon Thomas, has issued a strong reminder to Members of Parliament (MPs) on their constitutional obligation to prioritize the interests of the people of Sierra Leone, citing provisions of the 1991 Constitution.

Delivering his statement during parliamentary sittings on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, Speaker Segepoh Solomon Thomas emphasized that MPs must remain committed to the people they represent and avoid any conduct that undermines public trust.

Making reference to Section 97(b) of Act No. 6 of the 1991 Constitution of Sierra Leone, the Speaker quoted: “All Members of Parliament shall regard themselves as representatives of the people of Sierra Leone and desist from any conduct by which they seek improperly to enrich themselves or alienate themselves from the people.” He stressed that this provision serves as a guiding principle for parliamentary conduct and accountability.

Speaker Segepoh Solomon Thomas welcomed Members of Parliament back from recess and reiterated that their primary mandate remains service to the people. He underscored that their election into Parliament carries a responsibility that must take precedence over all other considerations, including political affiliations.

“You have been elected by your people. You come to this House of Parliament to serve the Republic of Sierra Leone. All other considerations are secondary,” the Speaker stated. “Of course, you belong to political parties, but once elected, your foremost duty is to serve the people of Sierra Leone.”

Addressing concerns surrounding the recent adjournment of parliamentary sittings, the Speaker clarified that the decision had been deliberately taken to accommodate the All People’s Congress (APC) Party’s Lower Level Elections, as well as the observance of the Eid holiday. He explained that the move was intended to ensure fairness and to prevent Members from being placed at a disadvantage while participating in critical party activities.

According to him, the decision was made in good faith to promote inclusivity and allow all Members adequate space to fulfill both their political and religious obligations without conflict.

With Parliament now reconvened, Speaker Segepoh Solomon Thomas declared that legislative work has officially resumed, noting that sittings will now be held more frequently. He called on all MPs to demonstrate renewed energy and commitment in executing their duties.

He further urged Members not to use parliamentary attendance as a tool to pressure Government, emphasizing that there are numerous legitimate avenues available to advocate for policy actions and national development priorities.

“There are more than one hundred and ten ways to urge Government to do certain things,” he said, cautioning against approaches that could undermine the integrity of parliamentary proceedings.

In concluding his remarks, Speaker Segepoh Solomon Thomas invited the leadership of the All People’s Congress in Parliament to a special meeting scheduled to take place in his Chambers at 1:00 PM the following day.

The Speaker’s address is seen as a reaffirmation of Parliament’s commitment to upholding constitutional values, strengthening democratic governance and ensuring that elected representatives remain accountable to the citizens they serve. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/speaker-thomas-issues-firm-reminder-to-mps-on-people-centered-leadership/