Journalist and Chairman, Guild of Newspapers Editors, Thomas Josephus Dixon has questioned President Julius Maada Bio’s recent level of commitment in hosting the 69th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, arguing that if the same dedication had been consistently demonstrated throughout his seven years in office, public perception of the administration would have been markedly different.
Speaking during the Truth Media morning programme and in a statement shared on his Facebook page, Thomas Josephus Dixon acknowledged the President’s efforts in successfully hosting ECOWAS leaders and overseeing a series of high-profile regional engagements. He observed that President Julius Maada Bio had displayed remarkable energy, commitment and determination in ensuring that Sierra Leone delivered a successful summit, describing the preparations and execution as impressive.
According to Thomas Josephus Dixon, the President’s recent level of focus has demonstrated what could have been achieved had the same intensity been maintained throughout his administration. He argued that many Sierra Leoneans might have viewed the Government differently if such commitment had characterized the President’s leadership from the beginning of his tenure. He further suggested that consistent performance over the years could even have inspired stronger public support for the President’s continued leadership.
Addressing the issue of national reconciliation, Thomas Josephus Dixon welcomed efforts aimed at resolving the political situation involving former President Ernest Bai Koroma. However, he cautioned that reconciliation should go beyond political agreements, stressing that meaningful peace cannot be achieved without addressing the grievances of those directly affected by the failed coup attempt.
“Reconciliation without healing is a problem,” Thomas Josephus Dixon said, urging the Government to engage more extensively with victims and families affected by the attempted coup. He maintained that truth, justice and meaningful dialogue remain essential ingredients for achieving lasting national unity and reconciliation.
The veteran journalist also predicted that President Julius Maada Bio could announce a cabinet reshuffle following the conclusion of the ECOWAS engagements. Thomas Josephus Dixon said he would not be surprised if changes were made within the Government as part of efforts to reposition the administration after the successful hosting of the regional summit.
His comments come as Sierra Leone hosts the 69th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, bringing together Heads of State, senior Government officials and regional stakeholders to deliberate on issues including security, economic integration, democratic governance and regional cooperation. President Julius Maada Bio, who currently serves as Chairman of ECOWAS, has led a series of diplomatic engagements and high-level meetings in preparation for the summit.
The summit has placed Sierra Leone at the centre of regional diplomacy, providing the country with an opportunity to showcase its capacity to host major international events while strengthening its role in promoting peace, stability and cooperation across the West African sub-region. Throughout the engagements, President Julius Maada Bio has continued to receive regional leaders and oversee discussions aimed at advancing the ECOWAS agenda.
