The Parliament of Sierra Leone has officially bid farewell to Rev. Alusine Diamond Suma, former Country Director of the Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD), in a heartfelt ceremony recognizing his six years of dedicated service and partnership, on Monday 08/09/2025 at the Center for Strategy and Parliamentary Studies.
Chairing the event, Sheku Lamin Turay, Director of the Parliamentary and Public Relations Department, acknowledged Rev. Suma’s impactful role in promoting democratic governance and strengthening the institutional capacity of Parliament. He commended Rev. Suma for enhancing transparency through initiatives like the Open Government Partnership and for his support to various departments within the legislature.
“He brought visibility and credibility to Parliament,” Mr. Turay noted, citing numerous collaborative projects that had contributed to institutional reforms.
Other speakers echoed these sentiments, reflecting on Rev. Suma’s legacy of dedication and collaboration:
Ibrahim Jimisa, Director of the Parliamentary Budget Office, described Rev. Suma as “passionate and supportive,” particularly in enhancing his department’s capacity.
Mohamed Jalloh of the Centre for Strategy and Parliamentary Studies (CSPS) heaped praises on Rev. Suma’s tireless efforts and noted his early beginnings with Student Partnerships Worldwide, lauding his ongoing support for youth and institutional development.
Christina Syl-Turay, Director of Human Resource, commended Rev. Suma’s invaluable contributions to staff development and administrative reforms.
Mohamed Momoh Ngevao, Deputy Director of Committees, thanked Rev. Suma, on behalf of his department and wished him success in his future endeavours.
Fallah Kamanda, Deputy Director of CSPS, highlighted Rev. Suma’s background and service congratulating him on his new appointment as Commissioner at the Independent Media Commission of Sierra Leone.
Memunatu Fatima Seiwoh, Senior Research Officer at Parliament’s NGO Desk, expressed deep gratitude for Rev. Suma’s mentorship, which she said had a profound impact on her professional growth and the synergy between Parliament and civil society organizations.
Delivering a powerful farewell message, Madam Finda Fraser, Director-General of Parliament, described Rev. Suma as “a pillar and long-standing partner” whose work has elevated the aspirations of Parliament. “You have been more than a colleague you have been part of us,” she remarked. “We thank you for your selfless service and commitment to democratic growth.”
In his closing remarks, Gilbert Bosco N’habay, Deputy Clerk of Parliament, applauded Rev. Suma’s contribution to the Parliament’s development strides. He reaffirmed Parliament’s commitment to sustaining the gains made under Rev. Suma’s leadership and offered prayers for his continued success.
From the WFD team, Mr. Wurie Bah expressed appreciation for Rev. Suma’s mentorship, visionary leadership, and described their time together as a “blessing.”
Echoing these sentiments, Isata Sillah Samba, Programme Admin and Finance Assistant at WFD, referred to him as “the Diamond of WFD,” noting his transformative impact on both individuals and institutions.
In his farewell address, Rev. Alusine Diamond Suma expressed profound gratitude to the Parliament of Sierra Leone for the opportunity to serve as a development partner. He reflected on his journey, tracing his involvement across various stages of institutional reform, and shared heartfelt memories of working with Members of Parliament, staff, and stakeholders. “I am grateful to have been part of this national conversation on democratic development,” Rev. Suma said. “Working with Parliament has been a privilege, and I will carry the lessons and experiences with me.”
He promised to remain an advocate for Sierra Leone’s development and expressed hope that the partnership between Parliament and the WFD would continue to thrive.
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