By Foday Moriba Conteh

In a historic demonstration of political maturity and national solidarity, President Dr. Julius Maada Bio on Monday, July 7, 2025, welcomed a high-level delegation comprising Members of Parliament from both the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and the opposition All People’s Congress (APC) to State House. The purpose of the visit was to jointly congratulate the President on his election as Chairperson of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government and to engage in dialogue on key national matters.

In his opening remarks, President Bio expressed profound appreciation for the show of unity and the warm congratulatory messages from both political parties. He stated that the rare bipartisan show of support sends a powerful message of hope for Sierra Leone’s democratic future.


“Meaningful progress can be achieved when we unite to develop our nation, prioritizing collaboration over party politics,” he emphasized.

The delegation was formally introduced by Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, who hailed the visit as a clear indication of Parliament’s commitment to national cohesion. He reiterated the Executive's readiness to maintain open dialogue and pursue common ground with the Legislature for the good of the country.

Delivering his statement, Majority Leader and Leader of Government Business in Parliament, Hon. Matthew Sahr Nyuma, described President Bio’s ECOWAS appointment as a proud diplomatic victory for the nation. He said the decision to conduct a joint congratulatory visit was reached after consultations between SLPP and APC leadership, marking a new era of cooperation.

“This moment transcends politics,” Hon. Matthew Sahr Nyuma said. “We are here to reaffirm the strong working relationship between the Executive and Parliament and to request more frequent engagements with Your Excellency beyond statutory obligations.”

Opposition Leader, Hon. Abdul Kargbo, echoed similar sentiments, commending the President for his regional recognition and leadership. He noted that the appointment reflected national pride and applauded President Bio for his deliberate efforts to empower young people in leadership.

However, Hon. Abdul Kargbo also used the occasion to raise several critical concerns affecting the opposition:

He expressed concern over the continued incarceration of opposition supporters in connection to the 2023 elections, arguing that it contravenes the spirit of the Agreement for National Unity. He also called for the urgent settlement of unpaid salaries and entitlements for elected opposition officials.

The Opposition Leader addressed the ongoing dispute surrounding the Clerk of Parliament, underscoring the need to preserve the institution’s neutrality, professionalism and integrity.

Hon. Abdul Kargbo stressed the importance of swiftly establishing the electoral oversight committee as stipulated in the National Unity Agreement, noting that such reforms are essential for ensuring free, fair and credible future elections.

In his response, President Bio acknowledged all the issues raised and assured both parties of his unwavering commitment to national unity, inclusive governance and the full implementation of the National Unity Agreement.

“The APC is a key player in Sierra Leone’s democratic journey and national cohesion cannot be achieved without your full participation,” the President stated.

He revealed plans to convene a structured political dialogue between SLPP and APC leadership aimed at addressing lingering grievances, rebuilding trust, and charting a long-term path for national peace and reconciliatio. He added that instructions have already been issued to relevant authorities to commence the implementation of all outstanding resolutions without delay.

President Bio also emphasized the value of bipartisan collaboration in policymaking, asserting that diversity of thought can be harnessed to formulate bold and effective strategies for national development.

“We are smart people, and with our diverse views from different political backgrounds, we can build consensus and make impactful decisions that benefit every Sierra Leonean,” he said.

Concluding his statement, the President thanked the delegation for their patriotism and cooperation, describing the visit as a strong symbol of political maturity and democratic growth. He called on both parties to sustain the spirit of dialogue, tolerance, and mutual respect in pursuit of Sierra Leone’s collective progress. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/ecowas-recognition-sparks-national-cohesion-among-political-leaders/