In a stunning and deeply controversial revelation, Hon. Paran Tarawally, the former Clerk of Parliament, has publicly admitted to playing a key role in what he described as “dirty work” to ensure the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) secured control of the Speaker’s position in Parliament and the forceful removal of some APC Members of Parliament in SLPP’s 2018 victory.
Speaking on a popular sister radio station in a candid and unexpected interview, Hon. Tarawally confessed that during his tenure, he was actively involved in orchestrating political maneuvers and behind-the-scenes tactics that gave the SLPP an upper hand during parliamentary proceedings—particularly in the highly contested election of the Speaker of Parliament.
“Yes, I was the one doing the dirty job at Parliament for the Sierra Leone People’s Party to get the Speaker in Parliament,” Tarawally stated, without remorse.
This admission has sent shockwaves through the political landscape of Sierra Leone, raising questions about the integrity of parliamentary processes and the ethical conduct of public officials who are expected to uphold the Constitution, not manipulate it.
The Role of the Clerk of Parliament
As the Clerk of Parliament, Hon. Tarawally was responsible for overseeing the administration of the House, providing impartial advice on parliamentary procedures, and ensuring that legislative activities ran smoothly and fairly. His role was not meant to be partisan.
However, his confession now casts a dark shadow over the legitimacy of past parliamentary actions—particularly those taken under the influence of what now appears to be coordinated political interference.
Implications and Public Outcry
Citizens, political commentators, and civil society groups have reacted with outrage. Many are calling for an immediate investigation into the former Clerk’s actions and a full audit of the parliamentary processes during his tenure.
“This is a betrayal of public trust,” said one political analyst. “The Clerk’s office is supposed to be a neutral ground, and if it has been used to rig or influence decisions, that undermines the very foundation of our democracy.”
The opposition, particularly the All People’s Congress (APC), has seized upon the confession to question the legitimacy of the current Speaker’s position and is demanding transparency and accountability from the ruling party.
What Happens Next?
Legal experts are now weighing in on the potential consequences of Tarawally’s admission. If concrete evidence surfaces of procedural manipulation or abuse of office, charges could follow. Moreover, Parliament may be forced to revisit decisions made under his watch, further destabilizing an already fragile political environment.
Some SLPP insiders have downplayed the statement as an exaggeration or politically motivated distraction, while others within the party have remained silent.
Meanwhile, ordinary Sierra Leoneans are left wondering: how deep does the rot go, and who else was involved?
Conclusion
Hon. Paran Tarawally’s confession has not only opened old wounds but may have also set in motion a series of political and legal battles that will shape the future of parliamentary politics in Sierra Leone. As the dust settles, one thing is clear: the call for integrity, transparency, and accountability in governance has never been louder.
