Parliament Rebukes Accord Logistics CEO, Warns of Arrest for Contempt.

Chief Executive Officer Johny Kouza of Accord Logistics stood before Sierra Leone’s Parliament, summoned, then severely reprimanded. His affront toward the Committee on Trade and Industry—toward Parliament itself—prompted this confrontation. Right Honorable Speaker Segepoh Solomon Thomas addressed Kouza directly within the Bar of Parliament, declaring his behavior unacceptable, intolerable.

Speaker Thomas emphasized that ignoring summonses from any Standing Committee constitutes contempt. Parliament would apply the law’s full force. He reminded Kouza that detention remains a clear consequence for refusing Committee directives.

This warning followed complaints by Honorable Veronica Kadie Sesay, Committee Chairman on Trade and Industry. She alleged Kouza’s disrespect toward that body. Speaker Thomas called this his final opportunity; future affronts would bring severe outcomes, even imprisonment.

“You are lucky but this becomes the first, last time we accept such behavior,” Speaker Thomas declared. “Next time you appear before this Parliament for contempt, we will imprison you. Tell us what reliance makes you behave disrespectfully toward Parliament.”

Such stern language underscores Parliament’s commitment toward upholding its authority, dignity. Processes, procedures demand respect. These remarks signal clear intolerance toward disrespect, non‑compliance—regardless of position, influence.

Opposition Leader Honorable Abdul Kargbo praised Speaker Thomas for naming, shaming the CEO. Kargbo urged repeating this approach toward any MDA Official disregarding Parliamentary summons.

Kouza’s appearance highlights necessary cooperation between legislature, private sectors. Accountability, good governance require mutual respect, prompt compliance. Parliament’s message now echoes with unmistakable clarity.

Correspondent-Hassan Bangura

Sierra Leone Parliament