By: Kadijatu Bangura, Daily Scope Reporter
Freetown – Two MPs who moved and seconded a motion to investigate the finances of the National Elections Watch (NEW) have announced they will not make public statements on the matter, citing parliamentary rules. Hon. Mustapha Musa Sellu and Hon. Ambrose Maada Lebby stated in a press release that they are “procedurally bound” by parliamentary standing orders to refrain from commenting on the issue, allowing the responsible committee to examine the matter and report back to Parliament.
The motion, introduced on March 30, aimed to scrutinize NEW’s financial flows, funding sources, and accountability mechanisms from 2016 to date. It was anchored on Section 93, subsection 4, of the 1991 Constitution of Sierra Leone, which empowers Parliament to appoint committees to investigate matters of public interest. However, Speaker Sengepoh Solomon Thomas temporarily suspended the establishment of the proposed parliamentary committee, citing sensitivity and the need for “proper judgment”.
The move has sparked debate, with some arguing that the suspension undermines parliamentary oversight and transparency. The MPs’ decision to remain silent has also raised questions about the balance between parliamentary privilege and public interest. The outcome of the investigation remains uncertain, pending further deliberations by Parliament.
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