By Alimatu Jalloh
Freetown, Sierra Leone — May 13, 2025: The Speaker of Sierra Leone’s Parliament, Rt. Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas, has announced the passing of Hon. Musa Peter Moigua, calling for a more structured and predictable healthcare system for Members of Parliament (MPs) and parliamentary staff.
The announcement, made during a parliamentary session, was met with solemn reflection and expressions of concern from MPs regarding the urgent need for improved medical support within the legislature. Hon. Moigua’s passing follows the deaths of other lawmakers in situations requiring critical medical intervention.
Speaker Thomas shared his personal conversation with the late MP just hours before his passing. “It is sad—he was somebody’s father, somebody’s husband, and one of us,” he lamented, urging the House to observe a moment of prayer in honor of the deceased.
Opposition Whip Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara stressed the necessity of healthcare predictability for MPs, revealing that three members of parliament are currently battling serious health conditions. “If we are afraid to demand healthcare, the people will simply replace us when we die,” he stated, advocating for the establishment of health insurance coverage for legislators.
Other MPs echoed similar concerns, including Hon. Aruna Massay Ngahinteh, who recounted her personal health struggles and lauded President Julius Maada Bio for his intervention in supporting lawmakers during medical emergencies. Hon. Neneh Lebbie, Deputy Whip of the ruling party, further reiterated the need for a structured healthcare system after facing similar challenges while on duty abroad.
Leader of Government Business, Hon. Mathew Sahr Nyuma, acknowledged the support provided by President Bio and the Ministry of Health but called for the removal of bureaucratic bottlenecks to facilitate easier access to medical care for MPs.
Speaker Thomas emphasized the necessity of a healthcare framework within Parliament, stating: “We want a system where, if someone falls ill, they can approach leadership, complete the necessary paperwork, and receive timely medical attention without undue delays.”
The call for predictable healthcare services was further endorsed by Chief Whip Hon. Dickson Rogers, who suggested that Parliament establish a dedicated budget for healthcare support.
Opposition Leader Hon. Abdul Kargbo extended condolences on behalf of his party and parliamentary colleagues, describing Hon. Moigua as a dedicated public servant who earned admiration across party lines. “His loss is not only a blow to his family and party but to Parliament and the nation as a whole,” he stated, urging strength and unity among lawmakers as they mourn the late MP.