By Alfred Peter Conteh

The Deputy Speaker of Sierra Leone’s Parliament, Hon. Ibrahim Tawa Conteh, has publicly commended the Sierra Leone Commercial Bank (SLCB) for its continued financial support to parliamentarians during the challenging times.

This statement was made during a recent Public Account Committee hearing on the Auditor General’s report on Sierra Leone’s accounts for 2022.

Hon. Conteh highlighted the crucial role that SLCB plays in providing loans to parliamentarians, particularly after the significant expenses incurred during election campaigns.

“Commercial Bank is doing very well. During our trying moments, after we spent all our money on campaigning, Sierra Leone Commercial Bank is among the banks that normally often gives us loans for us to be able to upkeep ourselves,” he stated.

He elaborated that these loans are essential for parliamentarians to manage personal expenses such as wardrobe updates and car maintenance, enabling them to represent their constituents effectively.

Despite receiving a government salary of twenty-one million Leones and fuel allowance, Hon. Conteh emphasized that the financial benefits are not as substantial as commonly perceived by people.

“We are not making millions as people are claiming. We don’t have enough seating accommodations, our office space is not enough, but yet still we make laws that will suit the interest of our people,” he explained.

The Deputy Speaker also expressed personal sacrifices made for public service, noting that he left a better-paying job to serve in Parliament.

“I was at a job with better opportunities, but I believe that my presence here is a calling, and in as much as we are doing our job, we need to be given a human face,” he said.

Furthermore, he appealed to SLCB for leniency in loan repayments, emphasizing that parliamentarians are diligent in meeting their financial obligations.

“Most of the cars we are using are on loan. We are appealing to SLCB to please be easy on us because we are complying when it comes to loan payment and our loan is not a risk to the bank,” Hon. Conteh urged.

This appeal underscores the financial strains faced by Sierra Leone’s lawmakers and highlights the essential role of supportive financial institutions in maintaining their ability to serve effectively. As the nation continues to navigate the economic challenges, the relationship between parliamentarians and banks like SLCB remains vital for sustaining the functions of governance and public service.