Freetown: Speaker of Parliament Segepoh Solomon Thomas on Tuesday expressed gratitude to Opposition Members of Parliament for resuming their duties. Thomas said he was extremely proud of the Opposition for returning to their seats, emphasizing they were elected by their people and have a national duty to serve. He told opposition lawmakers that nothing should stop them from representing their constituents, urging them to use the Well of Parliament to address the concerns of those who elected them. ‘Please use the Well of Parliament as an open space to advocate for your people,’ he said.
According to Sierra Leone News Agency, Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Abdul Kargbo, lavished praise on Speaker Thomas for facilitating the return. Kargbo recalled that Thomas held several meetings with opposition members in his office, appealing to them to come back. He added that the Speaker also arranged a productive meeting with the President to help resolve the political impasse. ‘As the Opposition, we want to express our thanks for the role you played, Mr. Speaker. We also thank you for serving as the conduit that enabled us to meet with the President. You showed exemplary leadership, and we remain grateful,’ Kargbo said.
The Opposition Leader urged that the communiqu© signed ahead of their return be honored. This includes laying the Agreement for National Unity before Parliament and establishing a committee to oversee the elections management body. Speaker Thomas took note of the concerns raised. He noted that the leaders of Government Business are currently on official functions at various international parliaments. He assured that necessary actions would be taken as soon as the ruling SLPP leadership returns from their duties abroad.