By Shadrach Aziz Kamara
In a unanimous decision on Thursday, August 8, 2024, the Sierra Leone Parliament approved Asmaa James as the Deputy Ambassador to Brussels, Belgium, along with eight other notable figures appointed to various positions.
Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara (AKK), the Opposition Whip from Kambia District, advised the ambassador-designate to Senegal to leverage his maritime expertise to study the fishing industry and bring back insights for development in Sierra Leone. AKK lauded Asmaa James for her illustrious career in journalism and sports, expressing confidence in her ability to attract investment opportunities from the European Union.
“I’m sure with Asmaa James in the European Union, she will bring opportunities for our country,” he stated.
AKK also commended Andrew Kailie for his work with the newspaper column “Ponder My Thought” and encouraged him to continue his efforts. He emphasized the need for the media to positively market Sierra Leone.
Hon. Zainab Catherine Tarawalie from Bombali District, the Opposition Chief Whip 2, urged the nominees to perform their duties effectively. She praised President Bio for appointing Asmaa James as Deputy Ambassador, expressing confidence in her capabilities. Tarawalie highlighted Fatmata Sawaneh’s commitment to political and gender activism, urging her to excel in promoting women’s participation.
She also commended Kambeneh M. Kallon, Madam Jeneba, and others for their achievements and encouraged Mr. Turay to bring innovation and development.
Hon. Veronica Kadie Sesay from Moyamba District acknowledged the qualifications of all nominees and thanked President Bio for appointing women to key positions. She emphasized the importance of diligence and patriotism in their roles.
Opposition Leader Hon. Abdul Kargbo from Port Loko District highlighted the responsibility of Parliament to prepare the nominees for their assignments. He praised Edward Lebbie Williams for his impactful leadership and called for improvements at the Sierra Leone Airport Authority. Kargbo also urged an investigation into the management of the new airport and the fair treatment of compatriots.
“We want young people to succeed so that the Government will repose confidence in other young people,” he stated, urging nominees to support Sierra Leoneans both domestically and abroad.
Hon. Mathew N’yuma from Kenema District, the Leader of Government Business, thanked contributors to the debates. He underscored the importance of national service delivery and urged nominees to fulfill their roles diligently. N’yuma addressed the issue of degrading compatriots, highlighting Asmaa James’s patriotic contributions and advocating respect for journalists.
N’yuma praised Andrew Kailie for his constructive criticism and recognized Kambeneh M. Kallon and Fatmata Sawaneh for their dedicated service. He emphasized gender equality and the achievements of President Bio’s administration in promoting women’s representation.
Speaker of Parliament Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas expressed confidence in the female nominees’ ability to excel in their positions. He encouraged them to make the country proud, stating, “Parliament stands with you and will always stand with you.”
The approved appointments reflect Sierra Leone’s commitment to utilizing talent and expertise to foster national development and international relations.
