Freetown, 21 November 2024 (SLENA) – The Speaker of Sierra Leone’s Parliament, Rt. Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas, has issued a strict warning to Heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), stressing the necessity of their involvement in the ongoing debate on the 2025 National Budget.
Addressing Parliament during the First Allotted Day of the debate, Hon. Thomas cautioned that MDAs failing to participate in the discussions, set to continue tomorrow, 22 November 2024, risk having their budget allocations withheld.
He urged all vote controllers to be present in Parliament to observe and actively contribute to the deliberations.
“Effective tomorrow, we will make a roll call of all MDAs present. Failure to attend will leave the House with no option but to withhold their budgets,” the Speaker firmly stated.
To ensure meaningful participation, Hon. Thomas emphasized that only senior officials—Directors, Deputy Directors, or those holding higher ranks—will be permitted to represent their institutions. This directive is aimed at guaranteeing that knowledgeable representatives are available to address critical questions and clarify institutional plans during the discussions.
“We expect full attendance from all MDAs for the five-day debate. Any absence will be met with punitive measures,” he added.
This decisive stance by Parliament highlights the critical need for accountability and active engagement in shaping the nation’s fiscal policies.
The 2025 National Budget debate will resume tomorrow in the Chamber of Parliament, with attendance strictly monitored to ensure compliance.
