By Shadrach Aziz Kamara
Members of the Sierra Leone Parliament has on Thursday 13th March 2025, engaged in a heated debate on the security of tenure for key public officials, as MPs discussed provisions in the just enactment Act of the Sierra Leone National Shipping Agency Act 2025.
During a session presided over by Speaker Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas, parliamentary leaders examined the legal framework governing the appointment and removal of high-ranking officials, particularly in relation to constitutional provisions and acts of parliament.
Majority and Leader of Government Business, Hon. Matthew Nyuma, emphasized the need for consistency in legal interpretations, stating that once the new constitution is enacted, it will take precedence over previous laws.
He pointed out that while certain offices may not be explicitly enshrined in the constitution, their security of tenure should align with constitutional principles.
“Where we are going to put a new constitution and make references to it, let us be mindful that we are guided by the supreme law of the state,” Hon. Nyuma stated. He further cautioned colleagues to consider constitutional supremacy in legislative decision-making.
Opposition and Minority Leader, Hon. Abdul Kargbo, concurred that security of tenure does not imply absolute immunity from dismissal.
“Even when you have security of tenure, there is a process under which you can lose your office. If you misbehave or go against procedures, you can still be removed,” he explained, highlighting that legal provisions must clearly outline the conditions under which officials may be dismissed.
Deputy Speaker Hon. Ibrahim Tawa Conteh stressed the importance of maintaining the integrity of constitutional provisions, particularly concerning high-ranking officials such as the Auditor General.
He argued that offices established under the constitution should be adequately protected to prevent arbitrary dismissals.
“The exercise of executive power must be balanced with constitutional safeguards. We must ensure that these offices are protected in the new constitution,” Hon. Conteh asserted.
Speaker Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas acknowledged the differing perspectives but reassured MPs that their core arguments aligned in principle.
“As far as I know, you are all saying the same thing – protecting the safety of these offices – but you are expressing it in different ways,” he concluded.
The parliamentary debate underscores the critical role of constitutional clarity in ensuring stability and good governance in Sierra Leone. MPs are expected to continue discussions as they refine provisions for the country’s evolving legal framework.
