Speaker Thomas Intensifies Efforts to End Opposition Boycott, Urges Return to Parliament
The Rt. Hon. Speaker of Parliament, Segepoh Solomon Thomas, has renewed efforts to resolve the ongoing parliamentary impasse, holding a second high-level meeting with opposition lawmakers and urging them to resume their constitutional duties in the interest of national governance.
On Friday, April 10, 2026, Speaker Thomas reconvened a follow-up meeting with Members of the Opposition in Parliament, as part of continued efforts to address their prolonged boycott of parliamentary proceedings.
The Speaker explained that the meeting built on earlier engagements aimed at facilitating the Opposition’s return to legislative duties. He noted that although he had intended to relay feedback from Julius Maada Bio following their previous meeting, the President had been occupied with other pressing national and international commitments.
Despite this, Speaker Thomas said he remained committed to dialogue and used the opportunity to once again appeal to opposition Members of Parliament—particularly those from the All People’s Congress (APC)—to return to the House and fulfill their constitutional responsibilities.
He emphasized that parliamentary duties should not be abandoned due to disagreements with the Executive, stressing that several critical bills are currently awaiting legislative action. According to him, the presence and participation of the Opposition are essential to the credibility and effectiveness of the lawmaking process.
“The Opposition plays a vital role in any democratic system,” he noted, urging members to utilize the Well of Parliament as a platform to express grievances rather than disengaging entirely from proceedings.
Speaker Thomas also expressed appreciation to the Opposition for honoring his invitation for a second time and for continuing to recognize his leadership as Speaker of the Sixth Parliament of Sierra Leone’s Second Republic. He reassured them of his commitment to engaging the President further in a bid to find a lasting resolution to the impasse.
Reiterating the importance of dialogue in a democracy, the Speaker appealed: “Please find a way to come back to Parliament.”
In response, the Leader of the Opposition commended Speaker Thomas for what he described as a sincere and commendable effort to bridge the divide between the Executive and the Opposition. He affirmed their continued respect for the Speaker’s leadership and acknowledged his role as a stabilizing figure in the current political climate.
However, he expressed concern that since the last engagement, no other meaningful outreach had been made to the Opposition to resolve the dispute.
The Opposition Leader underscored the critical role of opposition parties in strengthening democratic governance and called on President Bio to engage directly with them. He urged the Executive to set aside differences and pursue genuine dialogue in the national interest.
Raising concerns about public trust in the country’s electoral processes, he argued that lingering doubts from past experiences could undermine confidence in future elections. He referenced the appointment of Edmond Alpha, noting that while the decision may be constitutional, it must also inspire public confidence and be perceived as being made in good faith.
He suggested that, in the interest of national cohesion and lasting peace, consideration should be given to recusing Edmond Alpha from overseeing the 2028 elections.
The Opposition Leader concluded by reiterating that their boycott is not intended to disrupt governance but to advocate for reforms they believe are necessary to strengthen democratic institutions and restore public trust.
