By Emma Black
The Rt. Hon. Speaker of Parliament, Segepoh Solomon Thomas, has re-echoed President Julius Maada Bio’s declaration of a National Remembrance Week, calling on Sierra Leoneans to reflect deeply on the country’s eleven-year civil war and recommit themselves to national unity and development.
Addressing members of parliament during a sitting, the Speaker emphasized that 2026 must be treated as a year of action, urging lawmakers to be fully prepared, motivated, and united in advancing Sierra Leone’s development agenda. He called on MPs to place the national interest above personal or political considerations.
Rt. Hon. Thomas expressed concern over persistent delays in attaining a quorum during parliamentary sittings, describing the situation as unacceptable, he urged members to demonstrate greater discipline, punctuality, and commitment to their legislative responsibilities in the new year.
We must attend sittings on time and take our duties seriously, because the people of Sierra Leone have entrusted the sixth parliament of the Second Republic with the responsibility to serve them, the speaker said.
He further encouraged MPs to work tirelessly to fulfil the promises made to their constituents, stressing that much remains to be done to accelerate national development and improve the lives of citizens.
In his closing remarks, Rt. Hon. Thomas extended warm wishes for a prosperous and productive 2026 to members of parliament and the people of Sierra Leone, he expressed optimism that the year ahead would be marked by renewed dedication, cooperation, and tangible results.
The national remembrance week, as declared by President Bio, serves as a solemn reminder of Sierra Leone’s painful past and the sacrifices made during the civil war. It also reinforces the need for continuous efforts toward peace, stability, reconciliation, and sustainable development.
The speaker’s call to action underscores Parliament’s commitment to supporting the government’s development agenda while promoting accountability, citizen engagement, and national cohesion. As 2026 approaches, Members of Parliament are expected to rise to the challenge and work collectively to drive meaningful change for the benefit of all Sierra Leoneans.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Monday, 26th January 2026 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
