By: Aminata Sesay
In a ceremony steeped in tradition and constitutional formality, Paramount Chief (PC) Alhaji Musa Bamba Foray Kulio Jalloh III of Tonkolili District was officially sworn in as a Member of the Sixth Parliament of the Republic of Sierra Leone.
The swearing-in, held in the well of Parliament, saw PC Jalloh take the oath of office in accordance with Section 83(1) of the 1991 Constitution and Standing Order 1A. The oath, administered by the Clerk of Parliament, marked his formal commitment to uphold the Constitution and faithfully perform the duties of a Member of Parliament.
“I, having been elected a Member of Parliament, do hereby in the name of Allah swear that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the Republic of Sierra Leone… So help me Allah,” declared PC Jalloh during the solemn proceedings.
Following the oath, he was presented with two key instruments: The Constitution of Sierra Leone and the Standing Orders of Parliament. The Speaker of Parliament described them as his “guardian angel” guiding his legislative role and responsibilities.
In his welcoming remarks, the Speaker expressed warm sentiments over PC Jalloh’s return to Parliament:
“You were here before as an ordinary Member of Parliament. Now, you are here as a Paramount Chief Member of Parliament. You are welcome to the House,” the Speaker said, urging him to serve with dedication and integrity.
Paramount Chief Alhaji Musa Bamba Foray Kulio Jalloh now joins a distinguished group of traditional leaders who hold legislative authority. His presence in Parliament is expected to enhance the representation of Tonkolili District and reinforce the role of chieftaincy in national governance.
As Sierra Leone’s Sixth Parliament continues its legislative work, the swearing-in of PC Jalloh stands as a testament to the country’s democratic values — where cultural heritage and constitutional order harmoniously converge in the pursuit of national development.