In his inaugural media interview after his appointment, newly appointed Parliamentary Clerk, Gilbert Nhabay, says restoring balance in parliamentary administration will require depoliticizing processes. He emphasized his commitment to implementing the appropriate procedures in parliament during his tenure.
Regarding the de-politicization of Parliament's administration, Mr. Nhabay expressed his intention to maintain a balance by upholding the principle of "doing the right thing." He emphasized the importance of following the correct procedures to ensure the effective operation of Parliament and address any potential aspersions cast for personal reasons.
Mr. Nhabay also clarified that he is not an active partisan or politician, emphasizing his professional background and his intention to bridge gaps and promote collective work.
The newly appointed Clerk concluded by stating that the general public can expect professionalism from the Parliament's administration. He conveyed his commitment to utilizing his experience to meet expectations and navigate the challenges faced by the institution.
Mr. Nhabay's appointment came following the suspension of the substantive Clerk of Parliament, Hon. Paran Umar Tarawally, and the retirement of the Deputy Clerk, Mohamed Lebbie. The announcement was made by the Speaker of the Sierra Leone Parliament, Hon. Solomon Sengehpoh Thomas, at the 51st sitting of the Sixth Parliament (First Session) on May 28, 2024.
The appointment aligns with Section 82. (1) of the Constitution, which stipulates that the Clerk of Parliament shall be appointed by the President in consultation with the Public Service Commission and shall be responsible for the administration of Parliament.
The fate of the substantive Clerk, who is currently under investigation by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) for alleged employment impropriety, remains unresolved.
A ranking member of the Government bench, Hon. Bashiru Silikie, Deputy Leader 1, urged the ACC to conclude its investigation so that the substantive Clerk could return to his post, a sentiment echoed by the Speaker in the last sitting.
Regardless of whether Hon. Paran returns to his position, Gilbert Bosco Nhabay assumes the roles of Acting and Deputy Clerk, bringing a wealth of experience and commitment to the Parliament of Sierra Leone.
Mr. Nhabay holds a Master's Degree in Public Administration and International Development and a Bachelor's Degree in Linguistics from the University of Sierra Leone.
He is also a scholar of the InterAction Leadership program led by the British Council and Questions of Difference.
Over the past twenty years, Mr. Nhabay has held various leadership positions in the private and public sectors. He served as Director of SOS Children's Village, Acting Deputy Country Director of Plan International Sierra Leone, and Administration Manager of Plan International (2014/15). He also worked as National Project Support Manager of the British Government's sponsored Justice Sector Development Programme.
Mr. Nhabay possesses extensive experience in Programme, Research, and Management. He served as Programme Unit Manager and Sponsorship Manager in Moyamba and Port Loko Districts, respectively. He also worked as Programme Consultant for Westminster Foundation for Democracy, Gilbert delivered as the Director of Programmes, Research and Partnership in the House of Parliament supporting MPs and staff with quality research assistance.
Gilbert is a seasoned grants and resource mobilizer having served as Grants and Compliance Coordinator of Child Fund International and, Grants Controller.
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