By Alpha Sesay

Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah, popularly known as Chericoco, has been awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award by the 50 Most Influential Sierra Leonean Women Awards Committee, led by the Kids Advocacy Network. The ceremony, held on Wednesday, 30th July 2025, celebrated his outstanding contributions to peace, democracy and his tireless advocacy for women and children in Sierra Leone.

The event highlighted Hon. Chericoco’s 15-year parliamentary career, during which he has consistently promoted inclusive governance, gender equality and the protection of vulnerable groups. His leadership as Deputy Speaker of Parliament and later as Leader of the Opposition has been defined by his dedication to national unity and democratic principles.

Chairman Edmond Alim B. Fornah of the organizing committee praised Hon. Chericoco as “a selfless leader whose influence continues to echo through generations.” He emphasized that the award recognized both his defense of democracy and his bold stance in advocating for women and children, often in the face of political challenges.

Deputy Executive Director of the Kids Advocacy Network, Alimatu Jalloh, applauded Hon. Chericoco’s long-standing commitment to women’s empowerment and child protection. She recalled his critical role in overturning discriminatory policies against pregnant schoolgirls, ensuring young mothers retained the right to education. “He did not just speak for us; he fought for us,” she said.

Throughout his political career, Hon. Chericoco has been instrumental in fostering dialogue and bridging divides across party lines. His calm leadership style and commitment to democratic values have earned him respect both within and outside Parliament.

In his acceptance speech, Hon. Chericoco thanked the organizers for the recognition and reaffirmed his dedication to justice, equality and national progress. “Promoting peace and democratic values has always been at the heart of my public service,” he said. “This award renews my resolve to stand for the voiceless and build a nation where every child and woman can reach their full potential.”

The Lifetime Achievement Award adds to Hon. Chericoco’s legacy as a leader whose impact is measured not by titles, but by the lives he has touched and the democratic ideals he continues to uphold. https://thecalabashnewspaper.com/hon-chericoco-receives-lifetime-achievement-award-for-advocacy-and-democratic-leadership/