Some Members of Parliament (MPs) have expressed the desire to start flying the national flag on their cars.
Reacting to a complaint from Hon PC Hindowa Momoh of consistent embarrassment from police officers, the MPs said respect should be accorded them.
The deputy majority leader, Hon Sheku B. Dumbuya of the APC, said it had to be known that parliament was supreme but since they did not have a special number plate on their cars, they should have a flag to fly as identification. Hon Ibrahim Sorie also of the APC explained that MPs used to fly flags up to 1996 but stopped for security reasons when the war intensified.
He also said up to 1982 the Speaker had an automatic Mercedes Benz car; had a dispatch team with a crest of the coat of arms inscribed “Speaker” as number plate.
Hon Ibrahim Sorie expressed hope that by the beginning of the next session flags would have been provided for each member which would serve as an example of restoring dignity.
But it seemed not all MPs supported that move as the minority SLPP leader, Hon Momoh Pujeh, viewed it differently. He expressed fear that by flying flags especially in the city which housed the house of parliament, would be unsafe considering some harsh comments in town.
He also noted that it would not be of any difference for MPs flying flags to that of flags flown by taxi drivers on their cars. But Hon Ibrahim Bundu reacted that flying flags was a symbol of dignity and identification for which such paraphernalia should be accorded them.
The Speaker, Hon Justice Abel Stronge, allayed the fears of Hon Momoh Pujeh that “if you think it is dangerous for you to fly flags, please do not do it.”
An order has already been put to the ministry of works to supply MPs with flags.
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