By George M.O. Williams
Freetown, Sierra Leone – July 7, 2025: In a show of bipartisan engagement, leaders of Sierra Leone’s Parliament from both the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the opposition All Peoples Congress (APC) met today with His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio at State House to discuss the state of parliamentary affairs and assess the implementation of the Agreement for National Unity.
The meeting coincided with congratulatory remarks to President Bio on his recent appointment as Chairperson of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS — a position hailed as a significant diplomatic win for Sierra Leone.
Unity Across the Aisle
Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh opened the session by emphasizing the importance of continuous dialogue between the Executive and Legislature. He described the engagement as a step toward strengthening national cohesion and rebuilding trust across political lines.
Hon. Mathew Sahr Nyuma, Leader of Government Business in Parliament, described Bio’s ECOWAS appointment as a symbol of continental leadership and urged all citizens to view it as a milestone that transcends political allegiances.
On the opposition side, Hon. Abdul Kargbo, Leader of the APC in Parliament, echoed congratulations but did not shy away from raising critical concerns. He called attention to:
– The ongoing detention of APC members connected to the 2023 elections, which he argued conflicts with Resolution 4 of the National Unity Agreement.
– Delays in disbursement of salaries and benefits owed to opposition MPs.
– Controversies surrounding the Clerk of Parliament, which he claimed threaten the impartiality of the House.
Kargbo further emphasized the urgency of establishing the Electoral Review Oversight Committee as mandated by Resolution 20, cautioning that election credibility depends on its timely formation.
Presidential Assurances
President Bio welcomed the constructive nature of the conversation, pledging full commitment to executing all components of the Agreement for National Unity. He affirmed the indispensable role of the opposition in the country’s democratic and governance processes.
To foster reconciliation and resolve lingering tensions, the President announced plans for a structured political dialogue between SLPP and APC leadership. He stated that directives have already been issued to accelerate implementation of pending resolutions.
“We must remember that the progress we make is for Sierra Leone — not for any single party,” said Bio. “Together, as Sierra Leoneans, I am confident we will continue to work closely to implement bold and transformative initiatives that serve our nation’s future.”
The meeting ended on a hopeful note, reflecting a growing momentum for collaboration between Sierra Leone’s political actors.