By Ragan M. Conteh

The Speaker of the Sierra Leone Parliament, Hon Segepoh Solomon Thomas has pledged budgetary support and urged the former members of Parliament to continue working for the nation.

“I am extremely happy for such an idea which tends to promote national cohesion and development. I will make sure you are recognized”

The Speaker made the submissions on Monday 14th July 2024 during courtesy call visit by former Members of Parliament at his office in Parliament.

Speaking on behalf of the Association of former MPs, the former MP from the Coalition for Change (C4C), Hon Francis Saa Bhendu expressed thanks and appreciation for the elections of the Hon. Sengepoh Solomon Thomas as Speaker in the House of Parliament.

Hon. Bhendu said, they have decided as former MPs to formed and register the association with the ultimate aims to propagate Issues of National interest.

According to Hon. Bhendu years back, former MPs have nothing to offer after their tenure, adding that the newly formed association should be seen as one that will complement the efforts of Parliament in legislation, oversight and above all work closely with institutions of governance for nation building.

He therefore, implores the Speaker for giving them the platform to see him and to explain their aims and objectives as a new born baby.

Hon. Sirajin Rollings Kamara also buttressed on the aims and objectives of the association of the former Members of Parliament and how they intend to foster collaboration with Parliament to help on building the country.

“We are not done yet” Hon. Rollings said.

He furthered as part of their plans is to ensure that they go out in every corner of the nation to sensitize about the activities of government and Parliament including the tripartite recommendations.

He said they as former MPs cannot do anything without the blessing of the Speaker.

“We want you, Mr. Speaker to also give attestation which will further strengthen our work and as well make us very prominent” he said.

He emphasized on the need to engage former MPs who can help build better blocks through national engagement on development and lawmakers activities.

Responding, the Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas thanked the former MPs for such laudable initiatives.

Hon. Thomas said former MPs have enormous ideas on Parliamentary processes and procedures as they have been in Parliament and they can now able to handle dispute without rancor.

Speaker Thomas said, he will ensure that the association thrive and become an enviable organ to help Parliament and government.

“I am aware that former MPs do not easily have access to jobs because people are afraid of them because of their influences. Most former MPs are engaged on private businesses” he said.

He pledged to make the association become viable and assured the former MPs of his support at all times.

“I will make sure by next year my office allocate funds and budget for former MPs who can help Parliament in its work” he assured.