In a recent development, the Acting Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Sengepoh Solomon Thomas, has taken a decisive step by instructing the Clerk of Parliament to notify Airport Authorities that Members of Parliament (MPs) traveling with diplomatic passports should be exempted from the US$25 airport tax. This decision follows concerns raised by Parliamentarians who, despite holding diplomatic passports, were being compelled to pay the Airport Security fee.

Addressing members of Parliament, the Acting Speaker expressed shock upon realizing that MPs with diplomatic passports were subject to the airport tax, while diplomats from foreign countries enjoyed exemption from this payment.

According to information from Securipass traveler guidelines, specific groups are exempted from paying the fee, including Members of the Government of Sierra Leone Presidential Delegation, Members of Foreign Presidential Delegation, Foreign Diplomats in accordance with the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations (1961), Airline Crew on Duty, Infants (Children under 2 years), Transit/transfer passengers within 24 hours, and passengers from involuntary rerouting due to technical problems or weather conditions.

The directive from the Acting Speaker seeks to rectify the apparent oversight and ensure that MPs with diplomatic passports are treated in line with established guidelines. This move is significant in upholding fairness and aligning the treatment of Parliamentarians with international diplomatic norms.

As Sierra Leone observes this development, it underscores the importance of addressing discrepancies in the application of policies and regulations. The Acting Speaker's intervention aims to uphold the integrity of diplomatic privileges and enhance the equitable treatment of MPs during their travel.

This parliamentary decision not only rectifies an issue impacting MPs but also sets a precedent for ensuring that individuals with diplomatic passports are accorded the appropriate exemptions. The commentary section reflects public engagement and interest in matters of fairness and adherence to established protocols, emphasizing the significance of transparency and accountability in governance.