Freetown, 5th November, 2026 — The Parliament of Sierra Leone on Thursday, 5th November, 2026, continued debate on the Address His Excellency the President so graciously delivered on the occasion of the State Opening of the Fourth Session of the Sixth Parliament of the Second Republic on Friday, 7th August, 2026.
The Motion reads:
BE IT RESOLVED: “That we the Members of Parliament here assembled wish to thank His Excellency the President for the Address he so graciously delivered on the occasion of the State Opening of the Fourth Session of the Sixth Parliament of the Second Republic of Sierra Leone in the Chamber of Parliament on Friday, 7th August, 2026.”
Contributing to the debate, *Hon. Alpha Ben Mansaray* of Moyamba District highlighted the need to work hard to reduce maternal mortality in the country. He spoke on the danger of drug abuse and appealed for more Government and non-governmental support to eradicate drug use, particularly among young people. He also called on Government to complete ongoing road projects, especially in Moyamba District.
Hon. Yusuf Mackery of Bo District called for collective and bipartisan work to make Sierra Leone a better place. He raised concerns about challenges faced by Members of Parliament, particularly Committee Chairmen, in carrying out oversight functions. On health, he said child mortality has drastically reduced.
He stressed that proper management of State resources such as timber is paramount for growth. “Peace and cohesion are essential for the development of the State,” he said.
Hon. Aruna P. Lakkoh of Tonkolili District said the debate should focus on Government’s achievements in making life better for citizens.
He said the lack of good roads across major parts of the country remains a major challenge, but commended Government for enhancing food production. He expressed dissatisfaction over the deplorable condition of Magburaka Government Hospital and called for urgent Government intervention.
Hon. Momoh Bockarie of Kenema District emphasized the importance of national development and urged all arms of Government to perform effectively, with constructive criticism for a better nation. On electricity, he said Government has been exceptional in boosting energy supply.
“Mission 300 is a project that will greatly improve the energy sector in the country,” he said.
Hon. Aminata Sesay* of Port Loko District said many laws have been enacted to promote women and girls but cited implementation challenges. She called for collective work in addressing national concerns and commended the President for facilitating the return of former President Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma.
“The Opposition has always shown willingness to work with the Government,” she said.
Hon. Alie Bayor of Kenema District centred his contribution on national cohesion, noting that peace is essential for growth. He emphasized the need for collective work and sustainable development and praised President Bio for his work in improving Sierra Leone.
Hon. Daniel Fornah of Tonkolili District called on citizens to fully participate in the upcoming national census and appealed to Government for immediate construction of the Yelle Bridge to improve accessibility. He decried the appalling condition of Magburaka Government Hospital and called for a review of university fees, saying more burden is being placed on parents.
Hon. Rachel Pessima of Port Loko District cited page 3, paragraph 26 of the President’s speech, noting that the war in the Middle East has brought global challenges. She commended President Bio for managing prices nationwide despite the global crisis.
“The price control on rice is commendable and President Bio should be celebrated,” she said. She added that most manifesto promises have been achieved and commended Government’s huge investment in the sports sector.
Debate on the Presidential Address continues.
