By Fatima Kpaka
In a landmark session on Thursday, July 17, 2025, Sierra Leone’s Parliament officially approved Mr. Abdul Aziz as the new Auditor General, alongside nine other presidential nominees for critical governance roles. The session, which spanned hours, was marked by spirited debate and sharp political divisions, particularly surrounding the appointment of Mr. Alex Saffa as Electoral Commissioner for the Eastern Region.
Hon. Emerson Lamina, Deputy Leader of Government Business 2 and second-term MP from Kono District, led the debate in favor of the appointments. He championed President Julius Maada Bio’s commitment to gender parity and institutional development.
“The President’s appointments are progressive—he wears gender lenses when making these decisions,” Lamina said.
He emphasized the importance of technical expertise and accountability, urging institutions such as NaCSA and SALWACO to enhance public service delivery, especially in previously neglected regions.
Countering Lamina’s praise, Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara, Chief Whip of the opposition All People’s Congress (APC), delivered a critical rebuttal. Kamara objected to the appointment of Mr. Saffa, citing a lack of consultation in violation of Section 32(3) of the 1991 Constitution, which requires inclusive engagement with all registered political parties.
“When you twist the Constitution, we lose the very foundation that binds us as a nation,” Kamara warned.
Kamara also criticized deteriorating environmental conditions—pointing to pollution in the Rokel River—and faltering public service projects. He praised the Auditor General’s Office for shedding light on inefficiencies, particularly in agriculture, where mismanaged procurement caused waste and corruption.
The opposition MP called for merit-based leadership in technical institutions, cautioning against appointments driven by political loyalty over competence.
“If we keep putting square pegs in round holes, this nation will never develop,” he added.
Despite their contrasting views, both lawmakers extended best wishes to the appointees, urging them to serve with honor and prioritize national interests.
Parliament approved the appointments, but not without recorded discontent from the opposition bench. The debate underscored deepening polarization within the chamber, yet also signaled collective aspirations for stronger institutions, constitutional adherence, and people-centered governance.