Hon. Felicia Isata Wuleh Philips was on Thursday the 9th of July 2026, sworn-in as a Member of the Sixth Parliament of the Second Republic of Sierra Leone, following the passing of the late Hon. Lucinda Finda Kellie of Kono District.
The swearing-in ceremony took place in the Chamber of Parliament after the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone formally notified Parliament of Hon. Philips’ election in line with constitutional provisions.
The Rt. Hon. Speaker of Parliament, Segepoh Solomon Thomas, declared Hon. Philips duly elected and directed the Clerk of Parliament to administer the Oath of Office. The exercise was conducted pursuant to Section 83 of the 1991 Constitution of Sierra Leone, read together with Standing Order 1A as set out in the Third Schedule of the Constitution.
Following the oath, Speaker Thomas officially welcomed Hon. Philips to the House. He noted that she joins Parliament at a critical time and that her primary mandate is to represent the interests of the people of Kono District.
“Parliamentary sittings commence at 10:00 AM prompt,” the Speaker admonished. “I encourage you to be punctual, diligent and committed to the work of the House.”
Speaker Thomas further urged the new MP to study and make good use of the Standing Orders and the Constitution, describing them as essential tools for effective participation in debate, lawmaking and oversight.
“The work of Parliament is demanding, but it is also an honour to serve the people,” he said. “You are coming in to continue the work started by your predecessor. Serve with integrity, listen to your constituents, and bring their concerns to this House.”
The Speaker congratulated Hon. Philips and formally assigned her the seat previously occupied by the late Hon. Lucinda Finda Kellie.
Hon. Philips takes her seat with immediate effect and will serve the remainder of the parliamentary term representing Kono District. Members of Parliament across party lines welcomed her and expressed hope that she will contribute meaningfully to national development.
