Foundations of Parliamentary Democracy in Sierra Leone: My Memories of Parliament

This book gives a unique "insider's account" of the changes in governance that took place as Sierra Leone progressed from a British Colony with a self selected "legislature" to an Independent Nation with a democratically elected Parliament. It covers the period from 1944, when the authour started his career, to 1967 when a military take-over saw the dissolution of Parliament. In the position of Clerk to the various Legislatures in Sierra Leone the authour accummulated over twenty years of experience as an "insider" in the legislature and an independent witness of change. It is from this vantage position that the book outlines details of the events, processes and most of all the major personalities that shaped political governance in Sierra leone.

This book is not the usual historical account of dates and events with arguments over roles and outcomes. Rather it is an insightful and detailed account of the motivation and strategies of the different stake-holders as they battled for change in governance. It outlines the cut-and-thrust of debate in the various legislatures, resulting in the increased democratisation of political governance. The 1944 Legislative Council of 21 members was made up mainly of European Government Officials and members appointed by the Governor.This was later enlarged to include more elected members, becoming a 57-member House of Representatives in 1951, with an elected Speaker.

The stalwarts who pressed for change come alive in this book with all their political savvy and their idiosyncrises which made them colourful figures in the process of change. The authour portrays these main characters with empathy and fondness that reflect his role in serving and guiding legislators as well as his friendship cultivated with them over the years. The book comes alive with quotes from key players during critical debates on issues of profound national significance. Through these extensive quotes and the authour's description of the personalities involved the book captures the wit and humour that helped to maintain decorum and mutual respect amongst legislatures at the most trying times.

These men (there was only one woman legislator - Madame Ella Koblo-Gullama - throughout this period) were skilled at debates and parliamentary procedures, as they sought independence from Britain. Their task was clearly complicated by tensions and disparities between the "Colony people" and "Protectorate people", due in large part to the British strategy of "divide and rule" in its territories.

The book provides us with lively insights into the personalities and contributions of pivotal figures, including 4 Governors, 2 Prime Ministers, 3 Speakers, and some of the most formidable opposition figures. Milton Margai who became the first Prime Minister and his brother Albert Margai who succeeded him; Siaka Stevens who later became the first President of the Republic of Sierra Leone; Otto-During, Bankole Bright and Wallace-Johnson, household names in the history of Sierra Leone; all these names come alive in this book as personalities that changed the course of history in the country.

In modern times Sierra Leone has become widely known for a series of military coups and an ugly civil war that caused extensive destruction, loss of life and reversal of the democratic process. This book reminds us of a time when the hottest battles were waged in the chambers of Parliament with weapons of wit, diplomacy, humour and skilled debate. The book suggests there were winners and losers on every issue and debate, but the winners tended to be magnanimous and losers always lived to fight another day. The authour does not seek to pass political judgement on these early legislators, beyond their stated positions and interests.

Like a true civil servant S.V. Wright succeeds in a challenging task by painting a neutral portrait of these early political representatives and the key legislative processes they pursued in shaping the future of a natio