By Amin Kef Sesay
In a moment marked by solemnity and gratitude, the newly elected Speaker of the Sixth Parliament of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Rt. Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas, delivered a heartfelt acceptance speech, expressing profound humility and dedication to serve the nation.
Addressing Honorable Members of Parliament and the citizenry of Sierra Leone, the Speaker began by acknowledging the divine providence that led to the significant milestone and with deep reverence, gratitude extending thanks to the Almighty for His guidance and blessings throughout the journey.
The Speaker also extended sincere appreciation to His Excellency, President Brigadier (Rtd) Dr. Julius Maada Bio, and the leadership of the Sierra Leone Peoples Party (SLPP) for their unwavering support and trust. He acknowledged the nomination and backing from such esteemed quarters as both humbling and inspiring.
He also expressed appreciation to the outgoing Speaker, The Rt. Hon. Dr. Abass Bundu, for his dedicated service to the nation hailing his legacy of excellence and integrity as well as emphasizing his enduring contributions to Sierra Leone.
The Rt. Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas thanked his family, friends and well-wishers for their steadfast support and prayers which he said served as pillars of strength. He lauded their encouragement as invaluable, reinforcing his resolve to fulfill the responsibilities now entrusted to him.
The Speaker expressed profound gratefulness to Members of Parliament from various political affiliations for the trust placed in him regarding it as a profound honor strengthening his commitment to serve with dedication, integrity and humility.
Embracing the weighty responsibility that accompanies the role, the Speaker pledged to uphold the principles of democracy, foster dialogue, and advance the interests of the nation.
He pointed out that he recognizes the voices of the people of Sierra Leone emphasizing the importance of their voices in guiding decisions and shaping the nation’s future.
The Rt. Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas reiterated his deep gratitude to the people of Sierra Leone for the opportunity to serve with a shared vision of unity, justice, and progress affirming his commitment to building a stronger and more prosperous nation.
As the nation embarks on this new chapter, the acceptance speech serves as a testament to the Speaker’s unwavering dedication to serving the interests of Sierra Leone and its people.