By: Fayia Jr. Moseray
In a significant political development, Members of Parliament (MPs) from Sierra Leone’s main opposition party, the All People’s Congress (APC), have announced that they will resume parliamentary sittings on Thursday, July 10, 2025. This decision comes after the party’s concerns over the neutrality of the Clerk of Parliament were addressed by President Julius Maada Bio.
On May 5, 2025, the APC leadership, through a strongly worded press release, declared a boycott of all parliamentary proceedings. The opposition MPs called for the immediate resignation of the Clerk of Parliament, Hon. Umarr Paran Tarawallie, citing concerns over his involvement in the ongoing Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) executive elections.
Hon. Abdul Kargbo, Minority Leader in Parliament, alleged that the Clerk’s continued presence could influence parliamentary activities in favor of the ruling party. He warned that APC MPs would not participate in any sittings until the Clerk relinquished his duties.
In response to the APC’s demands, President Julius Maada Bio, in consultation with Parliament, directed the Clerk to proceed on leave. This directive was confirmed in a letter dated June 1, 2025, from Speaker of Parliament Hon. Solomon Sengeh Thomas, Esq., addressed to Hon. Abdul Kargbo. The letter stated that Hon. Umarr Paran Tarawallie was officially placed on leave effective June 20, 2025.
Following the President’s intervention, the APC parliamentary leadership issued a press statement on Wednesday confirming their decision to return to parliamentary duties. The party acknowledged that their primary concern—ensuring neutrality and fairness in Parliament had been addressed.
The APC praised President Bio for his decision, stating that it reflects a commitment to democratic values and inclusive governance. The party reaffirmed its willingness to work with the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) to strengthen the country’s democratic institutions.
“The APC remains dedicated to promoting democracy and will continue to engage constructively in Parliament in the best interest of the nation,” the statement concluded.