Sierra Leone’s President, Julius Maada Bio, has officially accepted the retirement of Hon. Dr. Abass Chernor Bundu as Speaker of the Sixth Parliament of the Second Republic of Sierra Leone. In a letter dated April 15th, 2024, President Bio expressed his appreciation to Hon. Dr. Bundu for his leadership in fostering a strengthened and productive relationship both in and out Parliament.
The President said he looks forward to Hon. Dr. Bundu continued support and wise counsel during retirement. Hon. Dr. Abass Chernor Bundu, in his letter dated 15th April, conveyed his decision to retire as Speaker. He expressed appreciation for what he called – the extraordinary privilege to serve in this capacity and thanked President Bio for the support throughout his tenure as Speaker.
Hon. Dr. Bundu’s retirement, effective April 30th, 2024, is based on medical reasons. He has served as Speaker of Parliament since 2018. Meanwhile, Hon. Dr. Abass Bundu has informed President Bio that he will withdraw from regular sittings until Parliament elects a new Speaker. This will allow the Deputy Speaker, the Rt. Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas, to preside over all parliamentary sessions, except when the President is present, as specified in Section 79(7) of the 1991 Constitution (Act No.6).