By Hassan Osman Kargbo
In a significant development within the legislative arm of Sierra Leone’s governance structure, President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has appointed Mr. Karmoh K. Conteh as the new Clerk of Parliament. The appointment, which takes immediate effect, follows the replacement of Hon. Paran Tarawallie who had been serving in the role until recently.
Mr. Conteh, a seasoned administrator, brings to the position over two decades of rich experience in public administration, particularly in the area of parliamentary affairs. His career has been marked by professionalism and dedication, qualities that many observers believe position him well to effectively steer the administrative functions of Parliament.
Prior to his appointment, Mr. Conteh served as Director of the Legislative Services Department at the Parliament of Sierra Leone. Two years ago, he was seconded to the Office of the President where he served as Executive Officer to the President. His return to Parliament in this senior capacity reflects not only the confidence reposed in him by the President but also the extensive knowledge of legislative processes.
The decision is firmly grounded in the Constitution of Sierra Leone. According to Awareness Times Newspaper, the appointment of Mr. Conteh by President Bio was made under the authority of Section 82(1) of the 1991 Constitution (Act No. 6 of 1991), a provision that mandates the President to appoint the Clerk of Parliament, while Section 73(1) further emphasizes the legislative role of the Head of State in relation to parliamentary matters.
In the interim period prior to Mr. Conteh’s appointment, the Deputy Clerk of Parliament, Gilbert Bosco N’habay, had been acting as Clerk. Following the confirmation of the new appointment, Mr. N’habay has been instructed to return to his substantive role as Deputy Clerk. Observers note that his stewardship during the transitional phase helped maintain administrative stability within Parliament.
The role of Clerk of Parliament is critical to the effective functioning of Sierra Leone’s legislature. The Clerk serves as the principal advisor to Members of Parliament on parliamentary procedures, manages legislative documentation, and ensures the smooth administration of the House. The position also carries significant responsibility for maintaining institutional memory and supporting the Speaker and Members in the discharge of their constitutional duties.
Political analysts have welcomed the appointment of Mr. Conteh, noting that his background and wealth of experience will be invaluable in strengthening parliamentary administration. His knowledge of both the legislative and executive arms of government, they argue, provides him with a unique perspective that could help foster stronger collaboration between the branches of government.
Mr. Conteh’s appointment also comes at a time when Parliament is increasingly playing a pivotal role in national development, lawmaking, and oversight. As such, his leadership will be closely watched by both political stakeholders and the general public.
With his assumption of duty, expectations are high that Mr. Conteh will continue the reforms aimed at modernizing parliamentary procedures, enhancing legislative efficiency, and ensuring transparency in the conduct of parliamentary business.
