By Amin Kef (Ranger)
While opening the extraordinary session of the Fifth Legislature of the ECOWAS Parliament on January 31, 2024, at the Bintumani Conference Center in Freetown, President Julius Maada Bio highly commended the outgoing Speaker of the Parliament, Hon. Sidie Mohamed Tunis, for his commitment to bringing the ECOWAS Parliament closer to the people through the integration of valuable projects aimed at strengthening the interests of people in the sub-region.
The President highlighted how Speaker Tunis did Sierra Leone and the region proud by accomplishing vital initiatives which, according to him, created significant results in the history of the ECOWAS Parliament.
“My endorsement for Hon Sidie Mohamed Tunis to serve as Speaker of ECOWAS Parliament has yielded great dividends not only for Sierra Leone but the sub-region as well. We are appreciative of him for making the Parliament visible to the people,” President Bio further commended.
It must be noted that, as a lawmaker, Hon. Tunis has successfully demonstrated a strong leadership role by tackling issues surrounding countries in the sub-region, promoting gender equality, and supporting trade deals that are in the best interests of the sub-region.
Earlier, President Dr. Julius Maada Bio emphasized the urgent need for collective action against illegal mining in the region.
President Bio expressed gratitude to the ECOWAS Parliament for its unwavering support in strengthening democratic processes and good governance, particularly in Sierra Leone and urged all member states to enhance their commitment to collaborative efforts in addressing shared challenges.
Highlighting the significant role of the Fifth Legislature in promoting peace and stability in West Africa, President Bio stressed the detrimental impact of illegal mining and trafficking in precious minerals on the region. He commended the ECOWAS Parliament for organizing the workshop, recognizing the importance of united action to tackle issues transcending borders.
Rt. Honourable Dr. Sidie Mohamed Tunis, Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, marked the conclusion of the Fifth Legislature and his tenure. He expressed gratitude to President Bio and the people of Sierra Leone for their support, recognizing the pivotal role of the events in shaping the Parliament’s agenda.
The three-day session, held at the Freetown International Conference Center, focused on the implications of illegal mining on peace, stability, security, development, governance, the rule of law, the environment, and the economy in West Africa.
