By Sulaiman Jalloh

Pursuant to Section 84(3) of the 1991 Constitution of Sierra Leone (Act No. 6), His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio will address the House of Parliament on Thursday, August 7, 2025. This address will formally open the third session of the Sixth Parliament of the Republic.

The Constitution mandates that, The President shall, at the beginning of each session of Parliament, present to Parliament an address on the State of the Nation.” This annual event is a cornerstone of Sierra Leone’s democratic tradition, providing the President an opportunity to reflect on the government’s achievements, outline ongoing initiatives, and present policy priorities for the coming year.

The address is expected to draw a distinguished audience, including Ministers, heads of parastatal institutions, and other dignitaries, underscoring its significance as a national event. In accordance with Section 88(c) of the Constitution, the Speaker of Parliament will vacate the chair during the President’s address, as stipulated: “Provided that the President addresses Parliament or attends in person, the Speaker shall leave his chair and no other person shall preside during such session, address or attendance.

Notably, Section 73(1) of the Constitution recognizes the President as an integral part of Parliament, reinforcing the ceremonial and constitutional importance of this occasion.

The State of the Nation Address is anticipated to provide insights into the government’s progress on key developmental goals, economic policies, and social programs, while setting the tone for the legislative agenda in the year ahead.

Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Wednesday,6th August 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)