President Julius Maada Bio addressed the nation on June 14, 2024, emphasizing unity and progress. His speech detailed critical steps and policies for national peace and cohesion. As the President’s words resonated across Sierra Leone, the nation listened attentively to the commitments and plans for a unified and prosperous future.
Advancing National Peace and Unity
President Bio began by extending Eid greetings and wishing safe returns to the Hajj pilgrims. He then highlighted the importance of national peace and unity, expressing gratitude for the citizens’ support and patience. “Following the June 2023 Multi-tier elections, my Government, in collaboration with the main Opposition Party and other key stakeholders, embarked on a comprehensive review of our electoral process,” said President Bio. This review aims to institutionalize political dialogue and foster inclusive governance.
The President emphasized the significance of the Agreement for National Unity, which led to the establishment of the Tripartite Committee on Electoral Systems Review and the operationalization of the Inter-Party Dialogue. These efforts, supported by international partners, aim to create a national climate conducive to critical reforms and unity.
Building a United Sierra Leone
President Bio passionately spoke about the journey towards a united and cohesive Sierra Leone, calling it a shared mission. He acknowledged the nation’s rich history and diverse cultures, traditions, and experiences. “Our history, rich with diverse cultures, traditions, and experiences, is a testament to our strength,” he stated. However, he also recognized the challenges that have tested the country’s unity and progress.
The President urged citizens to actively participate in nation-building, highlighting that their voices, ideas, and actions are vital to progress. “Your voice, ideas, and actions are important to our progress,” he declared. He encouraged citizens to engage in national development efforts, emphasizing the collective responsibility to build a more peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous country.
Transparency and Good Governance
President Bio highlighted the administration’s commitment to transparency and good governance. He informed the nation about the progress made by the Tripartite Committee on Electoral Systems Review. “This consistent advancement indicates our unwavering commitment to transparency and good governance,” he assured. The Committee is nearing the completion of its review, which will lead to a comprehensive report for the President’s office.
The President hoped the Committee would finalize its report by June 19, 2024. He warned against individuals with malicious intent who might exploit the Committee’s platform to create trouble. “We would like to sound a note of warning to all involved to cease or be met with the full weight of the law,” he warned.
Embracing Unity and Shunning Divisive Rhetoric
President Bio called on all Sierra Leoneans to embrace unity and reject divisive rhetoric. He emphasized that peace is the cornerstone of progress and urged the nation to adopt the principle of “politics without bitterness.” This principle involves engaging in political discussions with respect and empathy and focusing on collective welfare rather than personal or party interests. “We must strive to put Sierra Leone first above partisan politics,” he urged.
He also stressed the importance of teaching children the values of tolerance and respect to build a society free from hatred and division. “Let us teach our children the values of tolerance and respect so that they may grow up in a society free from hatred and division and love for our nation,” he encouraged.
Strengthening Democracy and Governance
In his address, President Bio reiterated his commitment to strengthening democracy and governance in Sierra Leone. He thanked the diplomatic and development partners for their support and praised the leadership of the APC and the SLPP for their commitment to peace. He also thanked the citizens for their patience and hope in building a stable democratic society.
The President called on every citizen to embrace the values of tolerance, respect, and solidarity. He urged Sierra Leoneans to work together to build a nation where everyone feels valued and included. “Let us work together to build a nation where every individual feels valued and included,” he appealed.
The Vision for Sierra Leone’s Future
President Bio outlined his vision for an inclusive, peaceful, thriving Sierra Leone. He emphasized the collective responsibility to safeguard democratic values and strengthen national cohesion. “Together, we can build a strong, peaceful, and prosperous nation,” he declared.
He called on the opposition APC to demonstrate leadership and promote peace and stability. He assured the nation of his government’s commitment to addressing citizens’ concerns, fostering economic growth, and improving education, healthcare, agriculture, and infrastructure. “We will focus on fostering economic growth, improving education, healthcare, agriculture productivity, and infrastructure, and ensuring that all Sierra Leoneans feel the benefits of our national development efforts,” he promised.
Conclusion
President Bio’s speech was a call to action for all Sierra Leoneans to unite and work towards a brighter future. His emphasis on unity, peace, and progress resonated deeply, highlighting the collective effort required to build a prosperous nation. As the nation moves forward, the President’s words will undoubtedly inspire and guide Sierra Leoneans toward a future of unity and prosperity.
