The Rt. Hon. Speaker of the Parliament of Sierra Leone, Segepoh Solomon Thomas, has called for stronger parliamentary diplomacy and cooperation between Sierra Leone and the Republic of Guinea.
Speaker Thomas made the call on Monday, October 5, 2026, while delivering a goodwill message at the historic State Opening of the 10th Legislature of the 5th Republic of Guinea in Conakry.
The Speaker said he was representing President Brig. (Rtd) Dr. Julius Maada Bio, the Parliament and the people of Sierra Leone at the ceremony.
He congratulated Guinean President Mamadi Doumbouya on his recent election and Hon. Dr. Dansa Kourouma on his election as Speaker of the National Assembly of Guinea. He also congratulated the people of Guinea on their recent celebration of independence.
Speaker Thomas expressed appreciation to the Guinean authorities and people for the warm hospitality extended to him and his delegation, describing it as a reflection of the enduring friendship between the two countries.
He said the State Opening was not merely a ceremonial occasion but also a reaffirmation of the strength of the two countries’ peoples, democratic institutions and longstanding relationship.
Speaker Thomas noted that the relationship between Sierra Leone and Guinea is deeply rooted in their shared history and culture, pointing to common names and cultural identities across both countries as evidence of their close ties.
He stressed that Parliament plays a vital role in giving citizens a voice, making laws, promoting justice and ensuring accountability through effective oversight.
According to him, peace and prosperity require continuous dialogue, vigilance and compromise, while lawmakers must rise above partisan interests to protect the rights and dignity of citizens, particularly vulnerable groups.
The Speaker further said challenges including economic transformation, regional security, climate change and sustainable development could not be addressed by countries in isolation.
He therefore called for greater collaboration between Sierra Leone and Guinea through stronger parliamentary exchanges and cooperation.
“In this spirit, I urge us to deepen parliamentary diplomacy between Sierra Leone and Guinea. Let us strengthen exchanges between our committees, foster cooperation in legislative practices, and build bridges that will enhance regional integration.”
Speaker Thomas said stronger parliamentary cooperation would help both countries contribute to regional integration, amplify the voice of West Africa internationally and ensure that citizens benefit from democratic governance.
He commended the Parliament of Guinea for its commitment to democratic governance and wished the new legislature fruitful deliberations guided by wisdom, courage and unity of purpose.
He also pledged the continued friendship and partnership of the Parliament of Sierra Leone with its Guinean counterpart.
“May our two nations walk hand in hand toward a future of peace, prosperity and shared progress,” he concluded.