By: Thaimu Bai Sesay
Fostering more collaboration and cohesion in the legislative arm, the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Ibrahim Tawa Conteh, has launched a two-day seminar aimed at enhancing cross-party dialogue and mediation among the Leadership of Parliament.
The seminar launched on Thursday 12th December 2024 at the New Brookfields Hotel, highlights Parliament’s commitment to fostering unity and collaboration in addressing national issues.
Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Conteh underscored the importance of cross-party dialogue in navigating challenging conversations facing the current Parliament.
He commended parliamentary leaders for promoting peace, unity, and effective dialogue within the House. Highlighting the role of traditional and multimedia networks in covering parliamentary proceedings, he contextualized the concept of consultation as enshrined in Sierra Leone’s 1991 Constitution.
Hon. Conteh reminded MPs of their dual mandate: advocating for the people and enacting laws that ensure peace, security, and good governance. Echoing reggae icon Lucky Dube’s lyrics, he affirmed the spirit of unity with “different colours, one people.”
Representing the Commission for Peace and National Cohesion, Deputy Director of Research Adikalie Sheku Kamara lauded the initiative. He emphasized the Commission’s role in conflict prevention and resolution, while highlighting the seminar’s alignment with the broader goal of fostering national cohesion.
In his statement at the event, Majority Leader and Leader of Government Business, Hon. Mathew Sahr Nyuma, stressed the value of statistical evidence over perceptions, citing progress under the Bo Declaration. Acknowledging the role of dialogue, consultation, and mediation in maintaining parliamentary decorum, he declared that current unity in Parliament transcends voting strength. Hon. Nyuma further emphasized the importance of respecting all structures, including Paramount Chief MPs, while advocating for improved conditions of service for MPs and celebrating the milestone of 42 female representatives in the House.
Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Abdul Kargbo, echoed the need for dialogue and consultation to foster unity and enhance parliamentary decorum. He cautioned against overreliance on majority voting, which he deemed counterproductive. Hon. Kargbo commended the Sixth Parliament’s consultative approach, emphasizing that a united Parliament holds more influence than the executive. He also encouraged MPs to avoid divisions, which could undermine the institution’s effectiveness.
Norah Babic of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), speaking virtually, emphasized the need for inclusive and comprehensive mediation processes that reflect the views of the majority, including women. She highlighted Parliament’s unique role as a space for both agreement and disagreement, advocating dialogue as the cornerstone of mediation.
Hon. Veronica Kadie Sesay, President of ECOWAS Female Parliamentarians, underscored women’s critical role in peacebuilding and bridging societal gaps. She celebrated the increased female representation in Parliament, facilitated by the proportional representation system, and thanked MPs who supported the Public Elections Act, 2022. Hon. Sesay also applauded the leadership roles now held by female MPs.
Director General Finda Fraser warmly welcomed participants, while Nancy O. Jalloh, Director of the Parliamentary Commission Secretariat’s Office, outlined the seminar’s objectives. Sessions were moderated by Sheku L. Turay, ensuring engaging and productive discussions.
This cross-party dialogue and mediation seminar marks a significant step toward strengthening unity, fostering collaboration, and enhancing parliamentary efficiency in Sierra Leone.