By Kadijatu Bangura, Reporter D.S
On December 4, 2025, Rt. Hon. Speaker Segepoh Solomon Thomas Esq. announced that Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) that fail to attend the ongoing discussions on the 2026 National Budget will face penalties. Speaking during the second day of budgetary deliberations, Speaker Thomas emphasized the importance of MDA participation in the budget process, stating it is necessary for all senior representatives to witness how Members of Parliament scrutinize resource allocations.
“The 2026 budget is the lifeline that will fund the programs of every Ministry,” Speaker Thomas remarked. “MDAs must be present to understand the implications of this debate for the implementation of government policies.”
He commended those MDAs that attended the first day of discussions, viewing their presence as a commitment to transparency and accountability. However, he expressed disappointment over the number of absentees, labeling their non-attendance as a violation of parliamentary directives.
“The Clerk will record any MDA that disregards this directive,” the Speaker warned. “When it comes time for budget appropriations, Parliament will take action against those in contempt, which could include the suspension of funds or other sanctions.”
As legislators continue to meticulously review the budget, focusing on key sectors such as health, education, infrastructure, and social protection, analysts believe that enforcing attendance could set a significant precedent for future parliamentary procedures. This would reinforce the expectation that MDAs must be accountable to the legislature, thereby enhancing the budget approval process for the development and services in Sierra Leone.
The Parliament is expected to finalize the budgetary debate later this week, after which the appropriation bill will be presented for approval by its Committee of Supplies, concerning budget allocations and estimates.
The Clerk has been directed by the Rt. Hon. Speaker to compile a list of absentee MDAs for review before any penalties are imposed.
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