Freetown, March 25, 2026 – The Rt. Hon. Speaker of Parliament, Segepoh Solomon Thomas, on Wednesday held discussions with opposition leaders in a bid to encourage their return to parliamentary sittings.
During the meeting, the Leader of the Opposition, Abdul Kargbo, explained that the opposition’s decision to abstain from parliamentary activities was linked to the appointment of Edmond Alpha as Chief Electoral Commissioner.
He stated that the opposition believes the appointee should not be involved in the management or supervision of the 2028 general elections.
Responding to the concerns, the Speaker urged the opposition to set aside political differences and resume participation in legislative proceedings.
He emphasized that decisions taken by the executive arm of government should not justify a boycott of Parliament, noting that lawmakers were elected to represent the interests of citizens.
The Speaker also highlighted several pending constitutional amendment bills requiring parliamentary consideration and encouraged opposition members to take part in what he described as an important legislative process.
He thanked the opposition delegation for attending the meeting and assured them that its outcome would be communicated to President Julius Maada Bio as part of efforts to find a comprehensive solution to the ongoing impasse.
The engagement is viewed as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen parliamentary democracy and promote cooperation across party lines, with expectations that dialogue may facilitate the opposition’s return to parliamentary business.
