Kono Gets New Parliamentary Voice as Felicia Isata Wuleh Philips Takes Oath of Office

FREETOWN, Sierra Leone – Kono District has officially regained full representation in Parliament following the swearing-in of Hon. Felicia Isata Wuleh Philips, who succeeds the late Hon. Lucinda Finda Kellie in the Sixth Parliament of the Second Republic.

Hon. Philips was sworn in on Thursday, 9 July 2026, during a formal ceremony in the Chamber of Parliament after the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone notified the House of her election in accordance with constitutional requirements.

Presiding over the ceremony, the Rt. Hon. Speaker of Parliament, Segepoh Solomon Thomas, declared Hon. Philips duly elected before directing the Clerk of Parliament to administer the Oath of Office. The process was conducted under Section 83 of the 1991 Constitution of Sierra Leone, together with Standing Order 1A.

Welcoming the new legislator, Speaker Thomas reminded her that her foremost responsibility is to represent the interests and aspirations of the people of Kono District. He encouraged her to approach the role with dedication, punctuality and a strong commitment to parliamentary service.

The Speaker also urged Hon. Philips to familiarise herself with the Constitution and the Standing Orders of Parliament, describing them as essential guides for effective participation in debates, legislation and parliamentary oversight.

"The work of Parliament is demanding, but it is also an honour to serve the people," Speaker Thomas said, encouraging the new MP to uphold integrity, remain accessible to her constituents and continue the work of her predecessor.

Following the ceremony, Hon. Philips was formally assigned the parliamentary seat previously occupied by the late Hon. Lucinda Finda Kellie and assumes office with immediate effect to serve the remainder of the current parliamentary term.

Members of Parliament from across the political divide welcomed the new legislator and expressed confidence that she would make a meaningful contribution to Parliament's legislative work and Sierra Leone's national development.

The swearing-in marks a seamless constitutional transition, ensuring that the people of Kono District continue to have representation in Sierra Leone's highest lawmaking body.