By Shadrach Aziz Kamara
Freetown, June 12, 2024 — The Deputy Speaker of Sierra Leone’s Parliament, Hon. Ibrahim Tawa Conteh, has publicly commended the Sierra Leone Commercial Bank (SLCB) for its continuous financial support to parliamentarians during challenging times. This commendation was made during the Public Account Committee (PAC) hearing on the 2022 Auditor General Report.
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 gives us loans for us to be able to upkeep ourselves,” he affirmed.
He emphasized 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 a fuel allowance, Hon. Conteh noted that the financial benefits are not as substantial as commonly perceived. “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 lamented.
The Deputy Speaker also reflected on the 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 opportunity, 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.
Hon. Conteh further 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,” he 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 economic challenges, the relationship between parliamentarians and banks like SLCB remains vital for sustaining the functions of governance and public service.
Deputy Speaker of Sierra Leone’s Parliament, Hon. Ibrahim Tawa Conteh
Hard Working MD of SLCB Yusifu Abdul Sillah
