By: James Kamara-Manneh
In a press release issued yesterday from the Office of the Press Secretary, President Julius Maada Bio announced the retirement of Rt. Dr. Abass Bundu from his position as Speaker of the Sixth Parliament. President Bio expressed gratitude for Dr. Bundu’s exemplary leadership and stated his intention to draw upon Dr. Bundu’s experience during his retirement.
Rt. Dr. Abass Bundu, a prominent figure in Sierra Leonean politics, tendered his retirement letter citing ongoing health concerns as the primary reason for his decision. Dr. Bundu had served as Speaker since July 2023, following his previous tenure as Speaker of the Fifth Parliament from 2018 to 2023.
The press release outlined that Dr. Bundu will recuse himself from all parliamentary proceedings to address his health concerns. In his absence, Deputy Speaker Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas will preside over parliamentary sessions until a new Speaker is elected.
Born on June 3rd, 1948, in Gbinti, Port Loko District, Dr. Abass Chernor Bundu is widely recognized for his multifaceted contributions to Sierra Leonean politics and diplomacy. A seasoned lawyer, tactful politician, and diplomat, he has held various high-profile positions, including Executive Secretary of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) from 1989 to 1993. Throughout his career, he has served in key ministerial roles, including Agriculture and Natural Resources, Tourism and Cultural Affairs, and Foreign Affairs and International Corporations.
Dr. Bundu’s political influence extends beyond his tenure as Speaker, as he is noted as a close ally and personal friend of President Julius Maada Bio. His familial ties to Hon. Ibrahim Bundu, a former majority leader of the House of Parliament and member of the opposition All People’s Congress, underscore his deep roots in Sierra Leonean politics.
While Dr. Bundu’s retirement marks the end of an era in Sierra Leonean politics, his legacy as a statesman and his wealth of experience will undoubtedly continue to shape the country’s political landscape. As Sierra Leoneans bid him farewell and wish him well in his retirement, younger politicians and government officials are expected to seek his counsel and guidance in the years to come.