Sierra Leone's political landscape witnessed a significant development as President Julius Maada Bio officially accepted the retirement of the Rt. Hon. Dr. Abass Chernor Bundu from his position as Speaker of the Sixth Parliament of the Second Republic of Sierra Leone. This decision, communicated through a letter dated April 15th, 2024, reflects the culmination of Dr. Bundu's distinguished tenure as a pivotal figure in Sierra Leonean politics.

In his letter, President Bio conveyed heartfelt appreciation and gratitude to Dr. Bundu for his steadfast leadership, which has contributed to fostering a strengthened and productive relationship within and outside Parliament. President Bio also expressed anticipation for Dr. Bundu's continued support and sage counsel during his well-deserved retirement.

Dr. Abass Chernor Bundu, in his own missive dated April 15th, 2024, conveyed his decision to retire from the esteemed position of Speaker of Parliament. He expressed profound gratitude for the exceptional privilege of serving as Speaker and extended appreciation to the President for the unwavering support extended to him throughout his tenure.

It was revealed that Dr. Bundu's retirement, effective April 30th, 2024, was prompted by health and medical considerations. Dr. Bundu has served as Speaker of the Fifth Parliament of the Second Republic from 2018 to 2023 and continued his illustrious service into the current Sixth Parliament since July 2023.

In light of Dr. Bundu's retirement, President Bio has been informed that until Parliament elects a new Speaker, Dr. Bundu will withdraw from its regular sittings. Consequently, the Deputy Speaker, The Rt. Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas, will preside over all parliamentary sessions, except in the presence of the President, as per Section 79(7) of the Constitution of Sierra Leone, 1991 (Act No.6 of 1991).

As Sierra Leone bids farewell to a dedicated public servant in Dr. Abass Chernor Bundu, the nation remains grateful for his invaluable contributions to parliamentary proceedings and wishes him a peaceful and restful retirement.