By Hassan Osman Kargbo
President Julius Maada Bio has directed the Clerk of Parliament, Hon. Umar Paran Tarawally, to proceed on leave effective 20th June 2025, following allegations of political misconduct raised by the Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, Hon. Abdul Kargbo.
The development was formally communicated by the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas, in a letter dated 1st June 2025 to Hon. Abdul Kargbo. The letter acknowledged that the President had taken action on concerns raised over the conduct of the Clerk and that deliberations are ongoing regarding the future of the Office of the Clerk of Parliament.
The move comes in response to a letter written by the Opposition Leader on 5th May 2025, in which Hon. Kargbo accused the Clerk of engaging in active political participation. According to Kargbo, Hon. Tarawally had been publicly vying for a position within his political party, a move deemed incompatible with the Clerk’s constitutionally mandated non-partisan role.
In his letter, Hon. Kargbo characterized the Clerk’s conduct as a clear violation of parliamentary ethics and standards, demandeing the immediate resignation of Hon. Tarawally, arguing that his actions undermined the neutrality and professionalism expected of the Office of the Clerk. “The Clerk of Parliament holds a crucial administrative and procedural role that demands impartiality,” Kargbo stated. “Any form of political involvement compromises the integrity of Parliament and threatens its ability to function without bias.”
The Speaker, while responding to the concerns raised, acknowledged the seriousness of the allegations and reassured the Opposition that appropriate steps were being taken, and urged Members of Parliament, particularly those on the opposition bench, to remain focused on their legislative duties and continue serving the interests of the nation.
“This is a sensitive matter and is being addressed with the seriousness it deserves,” Speaker Thomas noted. “We must ensure that Parliament continues to function effectively, upholding democratic values and accountability.”
The directive for the Clerk to proceed on leave is seen by political observers as a significant move, reflecting the administration’s willingness to uphold standards of conduct within public institutions. However, the final decision on Hon. Tarawally’s future in office remains pending, as discussions continue at the executive and parliamentary levels.
Reactions to the development have been mixed, with some praising the decision as a step in the right direction, while others view it as a politically motivated move amid rising tensions between the ruling party and the opposition.
The Clerk of Parliament is a pivotal figure within Sierra Leone’s legislative framework, responsible for managing parliamentary procedures, records, and administrative functions. Any perception of partisanship could erode public trust in the institution.
As the situation unfolds, stakeholders are watching closely to see whether the matter will result in further disciplinary action, resignation, or a permanent restructuring of the Office of the Clerk. For now, Parliament must navigate this sensitive issue while maintaining its core responsibilities to the people of Sierra Leone.
