President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has graciously accepted the retirement of the Rt. Hon. Dr Abass Chernor Bundu, Speaker of the Sixth Parliament of the Second Republic of Sierra Leone. This decision was made in a letter dated April 15, 2024, and was made after Dr. Bundu announced his resignation from his position due to health/medical reasons. President Bio conveyed his appreciation to Dr Bundu for his guidance and leadership in building a solid and fruitful relationship inside and outside of Parliament, and he anticipates receiving his support and advice going forward.
In his letter of retirement, Dr Abass Chernor Bundu thanked the President for his support during his tenure and expressed his sincere gratitude for the honour of being Speaker of Parliament. Having served as Speaker of the Fifth Parliament of the Second Republic from 2018 to 2023, and in the Sixth Parliament since July 2023, Dr. Bundu has made significant contributions to the legislative body.
Dr. Bundu announced his retirement, and his decision will take effect on April 30, 2024. He will abstain from all regular sessions of Parliament until a new Speaker is elected, with the Rt. Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas serving as Deputy Speaker in the interim. Section 79(7) of the Sierra Leonean Constitution of 1991 (Act No. 6 of 1991) governs this arrangement, except in situations in which the President is present.
A chapter in the history of the Sierra Leonean parliament has come to an end with the retirement of Dr Abass Chernor Bundu. His commitment to protecting democratic values and providing honest service to the people of Sierra Leone has had a long-lasting effect on the political climate of the country. As the nation says goodbye to a well-respected leader, attention is now turning to choose a new Speaker of the Parliament, someone who will carry on the tradition of encouraging accountability, openness, and good governance.
Dr. Bundu’s retirement serves as a timely reminder of the value of health and well-being in public service. His choice to put his health first is admirable and should serve as an example for all leaders, highlighting the necessity of caring for oneself to serve the interests of the country effectively.
