Speaker Suspends Setting Up Ad Hoc Committee to Investigate NEW

By Kelfala Kargbo

Freetown, 31^st March, 2026 – The Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas, has suspended the setting up of a committee to investigate National Elections Watch (NEW), citing the sensitivity of the matter and the need for “proper judgment.”

The motion was introduced by Hon. Sellu, who argued that NEW’s credibility had been called into question following a press release from the Office of National Security distancing itself from the organization’s 2023 election report. He also referenced complaints from a consortium of civil society groups alleging financial irregularities within NEW.

Hon. Ambrose Lebbie, who seconded the motion, claimed NEW’s membership figures were inflated, noting that while the group claims to represent over 400 civil society organizations, “they struggle to even have 50.” He stressed that Sierra Leoneans deserve clarity on the source of NEW’s funding.

However, Hon. Mohamed Bangura urged caution, recommending a closed-door meeting before any decision is taken. He pointed to inconsistencies in the arguments presented by both the mover and the seconder of the motion.