In a developing scandal that has sent shockwaves through Sierra Leone's parliamentary corridors, the Clerk of Parliament, Hon. Paran Tarawally, and his wife, Abibatu Paran Tarawally, have been released on bail following an investigation into alleged corruption by the Anti-Corruption Commission.

The focus of the investigation revolves around Mrs. Tarawally’s employment as a Human Resources Officer at Parliament, a position reportedly secured through her husband’s influence. The controversy gained momentum as Abibatu Paran Tarawally, who allegedly never reported for duty, has been drawing a significant gross salary of Le31,735,839 (Old Leone), including additional allowances for medical, rent, and utilities.

In a surprising turn of events, Abibatu Paran Tarawally has agreed to reimburse the funds she received as salary since her contentious hiring. The Anti-Corruption Commission has successfully reclaimed approximately ninety percent of the money, a noteworthy development as their investigations progress.

The scandal unfolded when the Parliamentary Commission initiated a Committee to investigate the abrupt dismissal of over one hundred staff members, triggering public outcry and revealing information about the questionable recruitment of the Clerk’s wife. The timing of these events has fueled skepticism and intensified public scrutiny on the affairs of Parliament.

Responding to mounting pressure, the Clerk of Parliament issued a Public Notice on January 5th, 2024, acknowledging the allegations and calling for the establishment of a special committee to independently examine the matter. The goal is to provide transparency and a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding Abibatu Paran Tarawally’s role in the parliamentary payroll.

As investigations proceed, the public eagerly awaits the findings of the special committee tasked with scrutinizing the employment of the Clerk’s wife. The case not only sheds light on potential corruption within the parliamentary system but also raises broader questions about accountability, transparency, and ethical practices within public institutions.

This unfolding drama involving the Clerk of Parliament and his wife underscores the necessity for robust oversight mechanisms and accountability measures to maintain public trust. The outcome of the investigations will likely have far-reaching implications on the perception of parliamentary integrity and may serve as a catalyst for reforms within the institution.