By John Kelly Marah
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs Conference Hall at Tower Hill became a vibrant epicenter of democratic discourse as lawmakers, civil society organisations (CSOs), international partners, and governance institutions gathered for a landmark two-day workshop and town hall meeting. Held from July 17 to 18, the event focused on strengthening civil society participation in legislative processes, deepening collaboration through parliamentary committees, and enhancing institutional capacity via the Parliamentary Civil Society Organisations Network (ParlCSONET).
The gathering marked a pivotal moment in Sierra Leone’s democratic journey, bringing together national leaders, development partners, grassroots activists, and policy experts in a forum that promoted honest reflection, strategic planning, and renewed commitment to participatory governance.
A Call for Unity and Transformation
Sahr Kendema, Chairman of ParlCSONET and chair of the engagement, opened proceedings with a stirring keynote address. He emphasized that ParlCSONET is not a regional or partisan entity, but a national platform dedicated to promoting civic trust, inclusive policymaking, and democratic accountability. “We can only live a better life when we live a better life,” Kendema declared, stressing the need for ethical leadership, unity, and a transformative mindset. His message resonated across the room, setting an energizing tone for the sessions ahead.
From Division to Collaboration
Alusine Diamond Suma, Country Director of a key partner organisation, reflected on the evolution of Sierra Leone’s CSO landscape. He credited leaders such as Native Edmond, Colleen, and Amelia for fostering unity within the movement and building a solid foundation for collaboration with Parliament. Suma praised the role of research, technical support, and international partners—including the EU and child-focused development agencies—in advancing legislative engagement and capacity-building across the country.
“This is not just work for today—it’s a legacy project for Sierra Leone’s youth and the next generation of civic leaders,” Suma affirmed.
Parliament Embraces a New Era
Acting Clerk of Parliament Gilbert Bosco N’habay offered an institutional perspective, recalling early challenges in fostering trust between Parliament and CSOs. He detailed how sustained dialogue led to progress through three key phases: resolution, relationship-building, and operationalisation.
“Parliament has undergone both structural and symbolic changes,” he said, citing newly designated civil society spaces and upcoming public parliamentary sessions. He emphasized the invaluable contributions of CSOs in providing grassroots insights and policy recommendations that lawmakers often lack.
Sustaining the Momentum
ParlCSONET Co-Chair Edmond Abu echoed calls for accountability and capacity. Reflecting on initiatives dating back to 1999, he urged CSOs to move beyond advocacy slogans and build the legal and policy literacy needed for meaningful engagement.
He also called for civic education around legislative procedures and constitutional powers—particularly the role of the President in assenting to bills versus Parliament’s legislative authority. His remarks concluded with a warm welcome to new members and a challenge to shape ParlCSONET’s future proactively. Support from Development Partners Representatives from IDEAS (National Institute for Democracy and the Electoral System) and the European Union reaffirmed their support for Sierra Leone’s democratic development. IDEAS highlighted its technical assistance to Parliament and ECSL since 2022, including staff training and legislative drafting.
The EU representative emphasized the bloc’s long-standing partnership with Sierra Leone and the critical role of civil society in promoting inclusive development and transparent governance. Both partners reiterated their commitment to forums that foster dialogue and strengthen democratic institutions.
A Movement on the Rise
Madam Juliet, National Coordinator of the Movement of CSOs, closed the plenary with a passionate appeal for unity and data-driven advocacy. She highlighted the growing influence of civil society in policymaking and urged CSOs to be bold, strategic, and rooted in grassroots realities.
“This movement is about empowering citizens to be co-authors of Sierra Leone’s future,” Juliet said, calling for long-term planning and sustained civic engagement.
As the engagement continues, the signs are clear: Sierra Leone’s democracy is gaining strength through dialogue, partnership, and collective action. With ParlCSONET as a bridge between citizens and lawmakers, the country is charting a path toward a more inclusive, transparent, and accountable governance system—anchored in the voices of its people.
