Sierra Leone Parliament Secures Key Commonwealth Role, Paving the Way for Stronger Ties with India.

In a victory for its diplomatic and democratic standing, the Parliament of Sierra Leone has been elected as West Africa’s representative on the prestigious Standing Committee of the Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC). This influential position, secured for the 2026-2028 term, positions Sierra Leone at the heart of shaping parliamentary practices across the 56-nation Commonwealth.

The election took place at the 28th CSPOC conference in New Delhi, India, a gathering of over 60 presiding officers from 42 nations focused on modernizing legislatures and strengthening democracy. The event, inaugurated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, centered on critical themes like artificial intelligence in governance, digital citizen engagement, and the security of elected officials.

This new role means Sierra Leone’s Speaker, the Rt. Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas, will represent West Africa at the committee's steering meeting in Barbados in August 2026. Beyond regional influence, the conference served as a catalyst for significant bilateral progress.

The Sierra Leonean delegation, led by Hon. Daniel Brima Koroma, Deputy Leader of the Opposition, held pivotal talks with the Speaker of India’s Parliament. These discussions advanced concrete plans for a Sierra Leone-India Parliamentary Friendship Group and emphasized the urgent need to establish a Sierra Leonean Embassy in India—a move set to deepen political, economic, and cultural ties.

Established in 1969, CSPOC is dedicated to fostering impartial leadership, robust parliamentary democracy, and institutional strength. Sierra Leone’s election to its Standing Committee is a direct testament to the nation’s renewed commitment to exemplary governance and its growing voice in global parliamentary diplomacy.

This achievement underscores a proactive stride toward greater transparency, inclusivity, and accountability. It empowers Sierra Leone to directly contribute to the Commonwealth’s evolving parliamentary standards, while solidifying its role as a dedicated partner in both regional and international cooperation.

Correspondent-Hassan Bangura

Sierra Leone Parliament