APC MPs Slam Clerk of Parliament

The Opposition in the Parliament of Sierra Leone has announced an immediate suspension of its participation in all parliamentary sittings and committee activities, citing concerns over the political involvement of the Clerk of Parliament. In a strongly worded press statement issued on Tuesday, Hon. Abdul Kargbo, Leader of the Opposition, declared that the decision was made in response to the Clerk’s ongoing bid for an executive position within his political party. The Opposition argues that such involvement compromises the neutrality and integrity of the Clerk’s office, which is constitutionally mandated to remain nonpartisan. “We have called for the resignation or dismissal of the Clerk,” the statement read. “His open involvement in partisan politics is incompatible with the impartial and administrative responsibilities of his office. Parliament is a national institution that must be protected from political bias at all levels.” According to the statement, the Opposition had formally communicated its concerns to the Honourable Speaker of Parliament and is currently awaiting a response, which the Speaker has promised to deliver within one week. The boycott, the statement emphasized, is not intended to disrupt governance but to “safeguard the ethical standards that underpin our democracy.” The Opposition reiterated its commitment to the rule of law and institutional integrity, stating that it would resume participation in parliamentary proceedings once the Speaker formally addresses the issue. The press release concludes with a call for Parliament to take formal action to restore public trust and uphold democratic accountability.