By Kadijatu Bangura, Daily Scope Reporter
Tensions flared in Sierra Leone’s Parliament as the Trade and Industry Committee summoned the Human Resource Manager of Rainbow Paint and Chemical (SL) Limited. This action follows allegations of “disrespectful and contemptuous behavior” during an official oversight visit to the company’s factory in Wellington.
Chaired by Hon. Veronica Kadie Sesay, the committee accused the HR Manager of failing to provide basic courtesies, such as seating arrangements, and of addressing lawmakers in an “inappropriate and confrontational” manner. Hon. Sesay questioned the treatment of the parliamentary team, citing a specific incident where she requested chairs for the MPs, only to be told they were already occupied. “Did you not receive our notification letter about this visit?” she asked.
In her defense, the HR Manager claimed that Rainbow Paint lacked sufficient facilities to accommodate a large group, stating that the available chairs were occupied by staff. She explained that she received the notification letter only around 11:00 a.m. on the day of the visit, just four hours before the MPs arrived, leaving little time for preparations.
However, this explanation did not appease the lawmakers. Hon. Tamba Simeon Johnny criticized the HR Manager’s tone and demeanor, accusing her of showing disrespect towards the committee. “I cannot sit here and watch this lady disrespect our chairperson and this committee. I move that we summon this company to Parliament,” Hon. Johnny declared.
After discussions, the committee resolved to summon Rainbow Paint SL to appear before Parliament on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, to address the allegations.
Observers, including Awoko Newspaper, reported that upon their arrival at the Wellington factory, MPs were kept waiting for about five minutes before the HR Manager entered and proceeded directly to her office, reportedly appearing displeased.
The committee aims to determine whether the HR Manager’s conduct constitutes contempt of Parliament, a finding that could affect Rainbow Paint’s relationship with the legislative body.
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