Hon. Abdul Kargbo Betrays Sierra Leoneans
A wave of disillusionment is sweeping across Sierra Leone’s political landscape as citizens and civil society groups express shock and disappointment over the recent twist involving the Clerk of Parliament, Hon. Paran Tarawally, and the opposition Leader in Parliament, Hon. Abdul Kargbo of the All People’s Congress (APC).
Just weeks ago, Hon. Abdul Kargbo was widely praised for taking a firm constitutional stance after news broke out that Hon. Paran Tarawally, Clerk of Parliament, vying to contest for the position of Secretary General of the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP). Kargbo had raised alarm both in Parliament and in the media, stating unequivocally that such political ambition was incompatible with Tarawally’s role as a supposedly neutral parliamentary administrator.
Quoting the Constitution and parliamentary standards, Hon. Kargbo argued that the Clerk, as a civil servant and non-political actor in Parliament, must resign if he wished to pursue partisan politics. His principled stance resonated with the public, many of whom applauded his courage and commitment to accountability and democratic integrity.
However, recent developments have left many feeling betrayed.
Instead of resigning, credible sources now reveal that Paran Tarawally was merely sent on leave, as we alleged with no formal resignation tendered. Even more disturbing, new reports suggest that Tarawally may soon be reinstated in his position as Clerk of Parliament—an outcome that contradicts the constitutional concerns initially raised by Hon. Kargbo.
This turn of events has sparked accusations of hypocrisy and political compromise against Hon. Kargbo. Citizens who once hailed him as a defender of constitutional values are now questioning whether his earlier outrage was genuine or simply political theatre.
“This is a total betrayal of the people,” said Aminata Conteh, a political analyst based in Freetown. “Hon. Abdul Kargbo publicly demanded that Paran Tarawally must resign, but now he’s silent as the Clerk prepares to return to office through the backdoor. What changed? Why the sudden U-turn?”
Civil society organizations and opposition supporters are calling for transparency and a public explanation. Many are also demanding a formal parliamentary investigation into the matter, arguing that the independence of Parliament is at stake.
Observers say this incident has once again exposed the fragile nature of institutional accountability in Sierra Leone, where politics often trumps principles, and promises made to the people are quickly forgotten once the spotlight fades.
As the situation unfolds, one thing is clear: public trust has been deeply shaken, and Hon. Abdul Kargbo now find himself at the center of a controversy that may define his leadership in Parliament for years to come.
We reproduce a conversation with the Hon Abdul Kargbo as we tried to get his side on the matter but prove it frutiled. See below the conversation:
[2:18 pm, 03/07/2025] John Kelly Marah Journalist: Hello leader
[2:18 pm, 03/07/2025] John Kelly Marah Journalist: Journalist
[2:18 pm, 03/07/2025] John Kelly Marah Journalist: Daybreak Newspapers
[2:18 pm, 03/07/2025] John Kelly Marah Journalist: Can we talk
[2:18 pm, 03/07/2025] John Kelly Marah Journalist: Are you guys going to Parliament today
[2:18 pm, 03/07/2025] John Kelly Marah Journalist: Although Paran Tarawallie has not officially resigned, being sent on leave conveys a clear message. Your press statement indicated a strong push for his resignation, not merely a temporary absence. This distinction is significant and speaks to the expectations surrounding his position.
[2:18 pm, 03/07/2025] John Kelly Marah Journalist: What is your take on this issues.
