Parliamentary Press Gallery Honour Speaker Segepoh on his Birthday
By Abdul Rahman Bah
On Friday, the 16th of May 2025, a remarkable occasion unfolded within the halls of Sierra Leone’s Parliament as members of the Parliamentary Press Gallery came together to honor and celebrate the birthday of the Rt. Hon. Speaker Segepoh Solomon Thomas. This gathering was more than a simple birthday celebration; it was a heartfelt demonstration of respect, gratitude, and solidarity between the press and one of the most pivotal figures in the country’s legislative process. The event symbolized the deep bonds that have been forged over time, reflecting the mutual appreciation and trust that exists between the Speaker and the members of the Press Gallery, who play an essential role in shaping public discourse and enhancing transparency in governance.
The Acting President of the Parliamentary Press Gallery, Feima Sesay, took the lead in conveying the collective sentiments of the gallery. Speaking on behalf of her colleagues, she expressed warm and sincere birthday wishes to the Rt. Hon. Speaker, invoking prayers for divine wisdom to guide him, steadfast protection to shield him from challenges, and continued promotion and advancement as he leads the Sixth Parliament of the Second Republic of Sierra Leone. Her words underscored the high esteem in which Speaker Thomas is held, not only as a political leader but also as a champion of press freedom and parliamentary transparency. Feima Sesay’s tribute went beyond customary birthday greetings; it was an acknowledgment of the Speaker’s consistent support for the Parliamentary Press Gallery, a support that has been evident throughout his career, including during his time as Deputy Speaker of the House. She praised his approachable demeanor, his willingness to engage with members of the press, and his recognition of their critical role in ensuring that parliamentary activities are communicated clearly and accurately to the public. This friendly and supportive attitude has fostered a working environment of openness, trust, and collaboration that benefits both Parliament and the citizens of Sierra Leone.
In response to this thoughtful and generous gesture, the Rt. Hon. Speaker Segepoh Solomon Thomas expressed profound gratitude and joy. He described the celebration as an inspiring and touching recognition of his service and leadership. The Speaker was deeply moved by the consideration shown by the Parliamentary Press Gallery, acknowledging their gesture as a testament to the strong partnership that exists between the legislature and the media. He assured the members of the Press Gallery that their efforts do not go unnoticed and reaffirmed his indefatigable commitment to supporting their work. Recognizing the vital function they serve, Speaker Thomas emphasized that the Parliamentary Press Gallery is more than just a group of journalists reporting on parliamentary affairs; it is a creature of Parliament itself—a fundamental institution embedded within the legislative framework. He stressed that the Gallery plays an indispensable role in the development of Sierra Leone by fostering transparency, promoting accountability, and ensuring that the actions and decisions of Parliament are made accessible to the nation.
Beyond expressing his gratitude, Speaker Thomas articulated a vision for strengthening the relationship between Parliament and the press even further. He announced his intention to convene a special meeting with the Parliamentary Press Gallery, a meeting that would serve as a platform for dialogue and collaboration. The goal of this gathering would be to devise concrete plans and innovative strategies aimed at enhancing the unhindered and efficacious functionality of the Press Gallery. He emphasized that for the press to fulfill its critical role, it must operate without barriers or interference, supported by clear policies and structures that empower journalists to carry out their duties professionally and effectively. The Speaker highlighted that the Parliamentary Press Gallery’s ability to report freely and accurately is essential not only for the transparency of parliamentary proceedings but also for strengthening democratic governance as a whole. By ensuring the press can function optimally, the Gallery helps build public trust in the political process and reinforces the principles of accountability that are vital for the nation’s progress.
As the celebration concluded, there was a palpable sense of optimism and renewed commitment on all sides. The Rt. Hon. Speaker’s words resonated deeply with the members of the Press Gallery, reinforcing the importance of their partnership and the shared goal of advancing democracy in Sierra Leone. The event itself, a thoughtful celebration of the Speaker’s birthday, became a symbolic reaffirmation of the critical role that the Parliamentary Press Gallery plays in the country’s political landscape. It underscored the fact that a robust, free, and well-supported press is not merely a complement to parliamentary work but a fundamental pillar upon which effective governance and national development rest.
The Speaker’s promise to call a special meeting to work collaboratively with the Press Gallery demonstrated his forward-thinking approach and his understanding of the evolving needs of modern parliamentary reporting. It signaled a willingness to listen, engage, and innovate in ways that will empower journalists to navigate the challenges they face, from access to information to the technical demands of modern media. This collaborative spirit promises to foster a more transparent and accountable legislative environment, where the public is kept well-informed and Parliament operates under the watchful eyes of an independent and vibrant press.
In this light, the birthday celebration of Rt. Hon. Speaker Segepoh Solomon Thomas was not only a personal milestone but also a milestone for the Parliamentary Press Gallery and, by extension, for the democratic institutions of Sierra Leone. It reaffirmed the commitment of both the Speaker and the media to work hand in hand in the pursuit of a stronger, more open, and inclusive democracy. The spirit of cooperation and mutual respect that defined the occasion sets a positive precedent for future engagements between Parliament and the press, promising to enhance the quality of governance and the depth of public engagement for years to come.
