By Ragan M. Conteh

In a significant directive aimed at strengthening transparency and improving parliamentary reporting, the Speaker of the Parliament of Sierra Leone, Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas, has instructed that all parliamentary oversight visits must now include members of the Parliamentary Press Gallery (PPG-SL).

The Speaker made this announcement during a recent parliamentary session, emphasizing the critical role of the PPG-SL in shaping accurate public perception of parliamentary activities. According to Hon. Thomas, journalists attached to Parliament have a better understanding of legislative procedures and oversight responsibilities than other external media professionals, making them uniquely positioned to communicate the work of Parliament to the wider public.

“Please, when you go on oversight, involve members of the Press Gallery,” the Speaker urged committee heads. “They know our work and have been with us. They can report better than journalists from outside.”

This directive comes at a time when Parliament is striving to increase public trust through accountability and visibility. By ensuring that journalists from the Parliamentary Press Gallery are actively engaged in field oversight activities, the Speaker hopes to improve the quality and timeliness of information shared with citizens.

The Speaker further encouraged Parliamentary Committees to collaborate with Paramount Chiefs (PCs) and local authorities in various districts during oversight engagements, highlighting the importance of inclusive governance and wider community consultation.

The decision has been welcomed by members of the PPG-SL, who see it as recognition for their longstanding work and commitment to covering legislative proceedings with accuracy and depth.

This move is also expected to enhance civic engagement, promote responsible governance, and strengthen the democratic process by allowing the media to report firsthand on how public funds are managed and development projects implemented.

As Parliament embarks on its next round of oversight duties, all eyes will be on how this inclusive approach impacts both legislative transparency and public trust.