President Bio Sends Clerk of Parliament Paran Tarawally on Leave Amid APC Pressure
In response to mounting pressure from the All People’s Congress (APC) in Parliament, President Julius Maada Bio has taken decisive action by directing Clerk of Parliament Paran Tarawally to proceed on administrative leave.
The move follows a formal letter from the APC Parliamentary leadership, demanding Tarawally’s resignation over concerns about his conduct. The APC further threatened to suspend their participation in parliamentary proceedings should no action be taken.
In a letter dated 1st June 2025, addressed to the Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Abdul Kargbo, Speaker of Parliament Rt. Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas conveyed the President’s decision. The Speaker wrote:
“…the President has directed that the Clerk of Parliament goes on leave effective 20th June 2025 whilst he tries to exercise his mind on the next line of action about the Office of the Clerk of Parliament.”
This action by the President, who also serves as Leader of the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), is seen as a response aimed at easing rising political tensions in the legislature and preserving institutional stability.
The APC cited mismanagement and procedural irregularities by Clerk Paran Tarawally as the basis for their demand.
Observers note that the President’s move signals a willingness to address bipartisan concerns and preserve the functionality of Parliament.
It remains unclear whether this administrative leave will lead to disciplinary measures, reassignment, or resignation.
The President is expected to determine the future of the Clerk’s office in due course.
Hon. Abdul Kargbo, the opposition leader showered praises on the President for sending the Clerk of Parliament, Hon. Paran Tarawally, on leave.
Parliamentary operations are expected to resume in full, with APC’s participation likely to continue now that their demand has been acknowledged.
