Speaker Orders Full Press Inclusion In Parliamentary Oversight Visits

By Desmond Isaac Macauley
The Speaker of Parliament Honorable, Segepoh Solomon Thomas, has directed that all parliamentary oversight visits must now include members of the Parliamentary Press Gallery (PPG-SL). This directive was issued during a recent parliamentary sitting, as part of ongoing efforts to improve the public’s understanding of legislative work.
The Speaker emphasized that PPG-SL journalists are better equipped to report on parliamentary matters due to their familiarity with legislative procedures and oversight responsibilities. “Please, when you go on oversight, involve members of the Press Gallery,” Hon. Thomas urged committee heads. “They know our work and have been with us. They can report better than journalists from outside.”
This decision comes as Parliament seeks to restore and strengthen public trust through greater visibility and accuracy in reporting. With PPG-SL journalists now expected to accompany oversight teams in the field, the quality and timeliness of public information about parliamentary activities is expected to improve significantly.
Hon. Thomas also encouraged parliamentary committees to collaborate with Paramount Chiefs and local authorities during oversight engagements. This inclusive approach, he said, would ensure broader community input and promote a more effective and people-centered oversight process.
Members of the PPG-SL have welcomed the move, viewing it as recognition of their consistent coverage of legislative affairs. The decision is expected to not only enhance civic engagement but also support responsible governance by enabling the media to report firsthand on the use of public funds and the implementation of development projects.