By: Aminata Sesay
Sierra Leone’s Parliament has officially approved a new set of presidential appointments, including the controversial nomination of Mr. Alex Saffa as Electoral Commissioner for the Eastern Region. The decision came after a marathon session marked by fiery debates, constitutional scrutiny, and bipartisan appeals for stronger institutional governance.
Despite sharp divisions across party lines, the legislative body upheld President Julius Maada Bio’s nominations. The ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) defended the appointments as both progressive and vital for enhancing institutional efficiency.
Leading the government’s defense was Hon. Emerson Lamina, Deputy Leader of Government Business II and Member of Parliament for Kono District. He praised the President’s choices as forward-looking, particularly in the areas of gender inclusivity and administrative capacity.
“These appointments reflect a President who governs with vision and fairness. He wears gender lenses and is intentional about inclusive leadership,” Hon. Lamina stated.
He urged appointees especially those leading institutions such as SALWACO and NaCSA to adopt disciplined, transparent, and people-centered approaches to service delivery. Citing persistent governance issues such as land mismanagement and the misuse of public resources, Hon. Lamina called for accountability and result-oriented leadership.
However, the approval process was anything but unanimous. Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara, Chief Whip of the opposition All People’s Congress (APC) and MP for Kambia District, vigorously opposed Mr. Saffa’s nomination, describing it as unconstitutional. He invoked Section 32(3) of the 1991 Constitution, which requires consultation with all registered political parties before appointing electoral commissioners.
“This is not just about Mr. Saffa; it is about the rule of law,” Hon. Kamara declared. “When we bypass constitutional procedures, we erode the legitimacy of our institutions and endanger democracy itself.”
He accused the government of politicizing state institutions and compromising merit-based appointments. Kamara emphasized that loyalty to the presidency should never override professional competence.
In a broader critique, he drew attention to poor service delivery and environmental degradation, highlighting issues like the pollution of the Rokel River and stalled water projects under SALWACO. He warned that ongoing failures in technical institutions continue to frustrate citizens and slow national progress.
“If we keep putting square pegs in round holes, this nation will never develop,” Kamara cautioned. “Let technical institutions be managed by qualified experts, not just political allies.”
Despite vocal opposition, the majority vote in Parliament ensured the approval of all nominees, including Mr. Saffa. However, the intense exchanges revealed deep-seated concerns about governance, legal adherence, and institutional independence.
Both MPs ended their speeches with advice to the appointees. Though differing in opinion, they echoed a shared message: leadership must be anchored in integrity and service.
“Today’s applause is not an end it is a beginning,” Hon. Kamara concluded. “Lead with purpose and integrity. That is what your children will remember not your title, but your legacy.”
The confirmation of the appointments, while procedurally complete, has left lingering questions about constitutional compliance and political accountability. As Parliament continues its oversight duties, the session serves as a stark reminder that true legitimacy comes not only from confirmation votes but from public trust and effective, principled governance.