Parliament Approves Key Nominees and Ratifies Major Agreements in July 2024 Session
On Tuesday, July 23, 2024, the Parliament of Sierra Leone unanimously approved the Nineteenth Report of the Committee on Appointments and Public Service, which included the endorsement of several key presidential nominees.
The approved nominees are:
- Dr. Julius Fofanah Sandy – Sierra Leone’s High Commissioner to Nigeria
- Mr. Salamu Koroma – Ambassador to Iran
- Mr. Mohamed Barrie – Ambassador to Saudi Arabia
The session was marked by extensive debate, where Members of Parliament (MPs) lauded the nominees for their qualifications and contributions. The Deputy Leader of Government Business, Hon. Bashiru Silikie, highlighted that the nominees were scrutinized thoroughly, including their educational backgrounds, work histories, and visions for their roles.
Opposition Whip, Hon. Abdul Karim Kamara, praised the nominees, noting their potential to enhance Sierra Leone’s diplomatic relations, particularly with Nigeria and Iran. The Deputy Chief Whip 2, Hon. Neneh Lebbie, described the nominees as eminent Sierra Leoneans, commending their dedication and urging them to promote bilateral relationships and create new opportunities.
Other MPs, including Hon. Paramount Chief Alameern Kanneh and Hon. Kemoko Conteh, expressed confidence in the nominees’ abilities and urged them to continue the positive work of their predecessors.
The Acting Leader of Opposition, Hon. Daniel Brima Koroma, emphasized that the nominees’ approval was a consensus decision, reflecting the Committee’s thorough evaluation. He also urged the nominees to focus on Sierra Leoneans living abroad and to strengthen diplomatic ties.
In a related development, Parliament ratified an extractive industries fiscal stabilization agreement with CTC Mining Sierra Leone Limited, dated July 11, 2024. This agreement, presented by the Minister of Finance, Fantamadi Bangura, aims to stabilize fiscal conditions for large-scale mining operations.
Additionally, Parliament debated the Bill entitled “The Sierra Leone Public Transport Authority Amendment Act, 2024,” which seeks to amend the Sierra Leone Public Transport Authority Act of 2023. The Bill was committed to the Legislative Committee for further scrutiny.
These legislative and diplomatic actions highlight Sierra Leone’s ongoing commitment to strengthening international relations and advancing key development projects.
