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Bar Association to Convene Extraordinary General Meeting on July 16

July 12, 2024

By Alvin Lansana Kargbo

The new Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA), under the leadership of Madam Tuma Adama Gento Kamara (nee Jabbi, has disclosed that it will be holding an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) scheduled for Tuesday, July 16, 2024. It further stated that the meeting will be convened promptly at 2:30 p.m. at Cathedral House, No.3 Gloucester Street in Freetown maintaining that it is restricted to only fully paid-up members who have settled their Annual Subscription fees.

Madam Tuma Adama Gento-Kamara recently reiterated her dedication to advancing the Sierra Leone Bar Association and ensuring the rule of law and democracy are upheld in the country.

She expressed her gratitude to the lawyers who supported her based on her manifesto, outlining her vision for improving the Association’s standards. She highlighted plans for educational initiatives such as scholarships and internship programs, as well as a new Secretariat building and pension provisions for retired lawyers.

The SLBA President also shared her vision for the Sierra Leone Bar Association, aiming to “raise the bar” by enhancing standards, empowering members, and addressing welfare issues. She announced plans to secure land and construct the first-ever Sierra Leone Bar Association Secretariat.

Addressing recent controversies, Madam Tuma Adama Gento-Kamara condemned the actions of Augustine Sorie-Sengbe Marrah and Wara Serry-Kamal for convening an Extraordinary General Meeting, calling it illegal and disruptive. She urged them to adhere to the law and cease their actions immediately.

The Bar Association President mentioned her willingness to engage dissatisfied members and explore mediation opportunities with the Acting Chief Justice and other legal profession key players to resolve ongoing disputes.

Madam Tuma Adama Gento Kamara called for swift action by the Attorney General’s office and Parliament to address the Tribunal Report, underscoring the importance of preserving the rule of law.

It could be recalled that, the Ministry of Information and Civic Education during its weekly press conference on Tuesday, July 9, 2024,t featured notable speakers, including the President of the Sierra Leone Bar Association, Madam Tuma Adama Gento-Kamara (Nee Jabbi). The press conference addressed various significant issues, including the findings and recommendations of the Tribunal investigating Lara Taylor Pearce and her Deputy.

According to Madam Tuma Adama Gento-Kamara (Nee Jabbi) the Tribunal has concluded its investigations and handed over their report to the President of the Republic of Sierra Leone in accordance with the 1991 Constitution.

She noted a procedural issue stating that the Tribunal should have only investigated the Auditor General, leaving the Deputy Auditor General’s matter to the Audit Service Sierra Leone Board. Director of Public Prosecutions, Osman Kanu, clarified that the Deputy was investigated for periods when he acted as Auditor General.

Tuma Adama Gento Kamara ended up urging the Attorney General and the Ministry of Justice to expedite the necessary steps, emphasizing the principle of separation of powers and the need for each Government branch to perform its constitutional duties.

“That is the beauty of democracy and the rule of law,” she remarked, calling for a speedy resolution before Parliament goes on recess.

CARL-SL Concludes Engagement with Parliamentary Committee on Human Rights, Electoral Justice & Security

July 12, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

The Centre for Accountability and Rule of Law Sierra Leone (CARL-SL), supported by the Open Society Foundation (OSF), concluded an engagement meeting on Wednesday, 10th July 2024, with the Parliamentary Oversight Committee on Human Rights. The meeting, held at the Speaker’s Conference Room in Parliament, focused on human rights, electoral justice and security sector accountability concerning the 2023 General Elections in Sierra Leone.

During the engagement, Francis Langumba Keili, Chief of Staff at the Office of National Security (ONS), did a presentation on security sector accountability and electoral justice, while Jeremy Simbo, Head of Programs at CARL, addressed incidents of alleged election-related violence during the 2023 general elections.

In his address, the Chairman, Parliamentary Oversight Committee on Human Rights, Hon. Abdul Karim Koroma welcomed the presentations and encouraged the team to take members through and see how best, as a Committee they will be able to absorb the materials presented and to address possible threat to national security and make corrections or amends.
He expressed worries about peace because without peace, he said no nation can stand by itself and hope that the deliberations would match the challenging times.

In his presentation, the Chief of Staff at the Office of National Security (ONS)Francis Langumba Keili said that since its independence, Sierra Leone is said to have repeatedly experienced election-related violence in every electoral cycle and the 2023 general elections landscape was replete with political tension.

He added that some of the major impediments that were fraught with the 2023 general elections, revolved around, but not limited to heightened political tensions and violence.

The peaceful conduct of elections, he said is a catalyst to creating the enable environment to strengthen governance stability and institutions to respond to the needs of citizens, enhance the social contract as well as consolidate the dividends of democratic governance in Sierra Leone.

He concluded by emphasizing that the aim of the presentation is to highlight the critical challenges that are inherent in security sector accountability and electoral justice with some plausible recommendations for deliberation.

On his part, Jeremy Simbo, Head of Programs at CARL said with support from the Open Society Foundation (OSF) and through their monitors in various districts, incidences of alleged election cases were reported before and during the 2023 general elections.

He said for the purpose of the engagement he is presenting a random sample of the incidences of alleged election cases reported and they were captured in keys areas like Mile 91, Moriba Town/Rutile, Koinadugu, Pujehun etc.

According to him, those cases were reported to the Police and up till date there has been no outcome received from the Police Investigation.

Following the presentations, a question-and-answer session Committee members asked pertinent questions and made comments. The Parliamentary Oversight Committee on Human Rights commended CARL-SL for the engagement and for highlighting the reported election cases. They assured that the matters highlighted would be followed up on.

Africell Unveils Inaugural Late-Night Show Featuring Jimmy B

July 12, 2024

By Foday Moriba Conteh

Africell Sierra Leone has on Thursday July 11, 2024 unveiled its first-ever late-night entertainment show starring Jimmy B, hailed as the Godfather of Sierra Leonean music. The highly anticipated launch event took place at Lumley Beach’s Paradise Beach Lounge, marking a historic milestone in the nation’s entertainment landscape.

Jimmy B, renowned for revolutionizing Sierra Leone’s music scene in the post-civil war era,with the establishment of Paradise Records in the late 90s, aims to spotlight the nation’s rich cultural heritage and talent through this innovative venture. Paradise Records played a pivotal role in talent discovery and fostering the music industry’s growth during its formative years.

“The essence of this late-night show is to showcase Sierra Leonean culture and provide a platform for all forms of talent, whether budding or established,” explained Jimmy B.

He applauded Africell for its steadfast support of Sierra Leone’s entertainment sector and expressed enthusiasm for collaborating with the telecommunications giant known for its robust commitment to corporate social responsibility.

“This initiative builds upon a long-term vision I’ve been nurturing. It’s designed to elevate our entertainment industry on both national and global stages, empowering artists to gain recognition and thrive through their craft,” he added.

Jimmy B disclosed that he has been diligently working on this project, accounting for his recent absence from the industry spotlight. His primary objective remains advancing Sierra Leone’s entertainment sector to achieve international acclaim.

Scheduled to air every Monday at 10:00 p.m. on AYV TV, Africell’s Facebook page, Afriradio and other prominent radio stations nationwide, the show aims to cater to diverse segments of the entertainment community, drawing audiences from across the globe.

This groundbreaking late-night show signifies a monumental leap forward for Sierra Leone’s entertainment realm, promising to spotlight the country’s vibrant cultural tapestry on a global scale.

U.S. HIV/AIDS Prevention Program Boosts Waste Management at RSLAF Benguema Facility

July 10, 2024

Department of Defense HIV/AIDS Prevention Program.jpg

By Esther Wright

The U.S. Embassy in Freetown’s Department of Defense HIV/AIDS Prevention Program on June 18, 2024, handed over a new waste disposal and incineration system to the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces Training Center at the Benguema Medical Inspection Facility. This initiative is part of a broader U.S. government effort to curb the spread of HIV/AIDS within both the military and the general public.

Proper disposal of medical waste is crucial in preventing the transmission of HIV/AIDS and other infectious diseases. The new waste disposal system will enable Sierra Leonean military medical personnel to separate hazardous medical waste from general garbage effectively, thereby reducing the risk of infections within the medical facility and neighboring communities. The U.S. Embassy expressed pride in collaborating with the medical facility to improve health outcomes for Sierra Leoneans.

Colonel Mohamed Alie Kamara, Commanding Officer at Bengeuma, extended his gratitude to the U.S. Department of Defense HIV/AIDS Prevention Program and the American government. He praised the project as a commendable initiative and urged his staff to diligently segregate medical waste before using the disposal system. Major Ogirima, Chief of the U.S. Embassy Freetown’s Office of Security Cooperation, officiated the handover ceremony. He assured the Sierra Leone Armed Forces of continued support from the United States in preventing the spread of HIV/AIDS and enhancing overall infection control measures.

Attorney General Defends Criminal Procedure Act 2024 Amidst Public Outcry Over Jury System Abolition

July 10, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a fervent appeal to President Julius Maada Bio, Leon Jenkins-Johnston, Esq., former Ombudsman of the Republic of Sierra Leone, has voiced strong opposition to the recently passed Criminal Procedure Act 2024, which eliminates the right to trial by jury. Jenkins-Johnston emphasized the constitutional significance of jury trials, citing historical and legal precedents to support his plea.

Drawing from the legacy of the late J.B. Jenkins-Johnston, Jenkins-Johnston highlighted a 14-year-old article by the esteemed jurist, underscoring the importance of jury trials in maintaining justice and liberty. He expressed shock and dismay at the Parliament’s decision, noting that the initial draft of the bill included provisions for jury trials, which were subsequently removed.

“The removal of jury trials is a dangerous move that undermines the fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution of Sierra Leone,” said Jenkins-Johnston. He referenced Blackstone’s Commentaries, emphasizing that trial by jury is a cornerstone of English law and a vital privilege for citizens.

The passage of the Criminal Procedure Act 2024 by a vote of 65 to 38 has sparked widespread concern about the future of the criminal justice system in Sierra Leone. Legal experts and concerned citizens have called on President Bio to withhold his assent to the bill and send it back to Parliament for reconsideration.

Morison Siaffa Gbaya, Esq., in a recent article, also expressed dissatisfaction with the abolition of the jury system. He pointed out that while jury trials are a hallmark of the English legal tradition, many countries with robust legal systems do not practice jury trials. Morison Gbaya argued that the jury system’s abolition should be carefully evaluated, considering both global practices and local realities.

Jenkins-Johnston echoed these sentiments, urging President Bio to protect his legacy and democratic credentials by rejecting the bill in its current form. “We plead with you, Your Excellency, to defend the Constitution and the rights of our citizens,” he implored.

As the debate continues, legal scholars and civil society organizations are calling for comprehensive law reform and public engagement to ensure that the criminal justice system in Sierra Leone remains fair and just. The decision now rests with President Bio, who is urged to act in the best interests of the nation and its people.

It could be recalled that, in a historic decision, Parliament has recently unanimously voted to pass the “Criminal Procedure Act, 2024” into law. This significant legislation marks a major milestone in Sierra Leone’s justice delivery process, according to the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Mohamed-Lamin Tarawalley.

The new Act will repeal and replace the Criminal Procedure Act of 1965, a move that has been over 20 years in the making. Efforts to review, repeal and replace the outdated 1965 Act have spanned more than two decades, culminating in this pivotal moment.

The Attorney General highlighted that this achievement aligns with President Dr. Julius Maada Bio’s manifesto promise and the performance contract signed by the Attorney General and Minister of Justice. The Attorney General’s office set a timeline for this legislative overhaul, and through dedicated leadership, has successfully delivered on this commitment.

Morison Siaffa Gbaya, Esq., detailed the complexities of the jury system’s abolition, noting that while the jury system is practiced in many countries, it is not universal. He emphasized that the jury system’s decline in many parts of the world demonstrates that it is not the sole path to justice. Countries with the civil law tradition, including many in Europe, Latin America, and Asia do not universally practice jury trials, yet they maintain robust legal systems.

Furthermore, he highlighted that some common law countries have also abandoned the jury system due to judicial and public dissatisfaction, including Malaysia, Singapore, South Africa, and India. He also argued that the focus should be on adopting models that fit Sierra Leone’s unique socio-economic, cultural, and political realities.

The crux of the debate centers on whether the abolition of the jury system meets the threshold of judicial and public dissatisfaction. If not, Morison Gbaya urges civil society organizations and legal experts to lobby the Presidency to withhold assent until Parliament reconsiders its stance on the jury system. He advocates for a reformed jury system adapted to Sierra Leone’s domestic realities, rather than its outright abolition.

In conclusion, the Criminal Procedure Act 2024 has sparked a significant debate about the future of justice in Sierra Leone. While some view it as a necessary modernization of an outdated system, others see it as a threat to fundamental rights. The ultimate decision now lies with President Bio, whose action will shape the trajectory of Sierra Leone’s criminal justice system.

Go and Grab Your National ID Card

July 10, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) has extended the deadline for obtaining biometric identity cards in Sierra Leone to December 31, 2024. This extension provides citizens and foreign residents ample time to secure their necessary identification.

The NCRA is actively issuing various categories of ID cards, including:

National Identity Cards: For Sierra Leoneans aged 12 and above.
ECOWAS ID Cards: Available on demand for Sierra Leoneans and ECOWAS citizens.

Non-National ID Cards: Mandatory for all foreign residents in Sierra Leone, except those with diplomatic waivers. Foreign nationals are strongly encouraged to acquire these cards.

The National ID Card simplifies various aspects of life in Sierra Leone, including:

– Financial Transactions: Facilitates smoother dealings at banks, forex bureaus, and insurance companies.
– Vehicle Purchase: Simplifies vehicle registration and licensing.
– Job Registration: Required by public and private employers during recruitment.
– NASSIT Enrollment: Essential for enrolling with the National Social Security and Insurance Trust.
– Property Matters: Necessary for buying land or registering property.
– Education and Exams: Required for enrolling in schools and universities and taking public exams.
– SIM Registration: Mandatory for registering SIM cards.
– Life Events: Eases the registration of births, deaths, marriages, and other significant events.
– Immigration Matters: Needed for applying for residency or work permits.
– Business Startups: Simplifies business registration and incorporation.

The parliamentary ratification of the ID Card Agreement mandates the use of the National Identification Number (NIN) for accessing various services. Applicants for work and residence permits must present their Non-National ID Cards, which include their NIN, at the relevant ministry or department for processing.

This initiative aims to enhance citizen safety and streamline local transactions. Biometric ID Cards, now required at checkpoints nationwide, offer secure personal information storage while providing access to essential services. The NCRA emphasizes that the National ID card is more than just an identification tool; it is a key to a future of convenience and security.

Residents aged 12 and above can obtain their National ID Card at designated NCRA centers across the country. Non-citizens must also apply for the Non-National ID Card for permits. The NCRA Centers for ID Card Application and Processing are located at:

1. NCRA Headquarters, 2 Walpole Street, Freetown
2. NCRA Office, 23B Off Kingharman Road, Freetown
3. NCRA Office, Kennedy Street, Freetown
4. NCRA Branch Office, Lumley Road, Freetown (By the Roundabout)
5. NCRA Office, Waterloo along the Freetown Highway (Opposite the Police Station)
6. NCRA Offices in the Regional Headquarter Towns of Bo, Kenema, Makeni, and Port Loko

To increase accessibility, corporate facilities are also available. Organizations and institutions such as Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), foreign missions, financial institutions, etc., can contact the following numbers for service details:

+232-33-433-333
+232-30-500-000
+232-78-221-812

Email inquiries can be sent to idverification@ncra.gov.

The NCRA is committed to ensuring that the national ID card serves as a gateway to a secure and convenient future, reinforcing its role in Sierra Leone’s socio-economic development.

NP (SL) Takes Customer Care Excellence to a Higher Pedestal

July 10, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

NP (SL) Ltd has been recognized as the top business entity for customer care in Sierra Leone. Specializing in various petroleum products, the company has garnered widespread acclaim for the cordial, efficient and professional services provided by Station Managers and Filling Station Pump Attendants across the country.

The company’s commitment to exceptional customer service is deeply ingrained in its mission. NP (SL) Ltd’s staffs are thoroughly trained to meet customer needs, ensuring satisfaction remains a core focus. This dedication to customer satisfaction has not gone unnoticed, with Ministries, Departments, Agencies, non-governmental organizations and private institutions signing Memoranda of Understanding with NP (SL) Ltd for fuel supply under a hire purchase agreement, allowing payment at a later date. This customer-friendly approach has proven to be a successful business strategy, facilitating convenience and strengthening customer relationships.

Founded by 35 Sierra Leoneans who acquired shares from the Government, NP (SL) Ltd has grown significantly, overcoming numerous challenges to become a leading company in the sub-region. The determination and commitment of its Shareholders and Management have been pivotal in its success, empowering many Sierra Leoneans and enabling the expansion of Filling Stations nationwide.

Beyond its core business of marketing petroleum products such as petrol, diesel, gas and various lubricants, NP (SL) Ltd is also known for its affordable NP Gas cookers. Available in various sizes, these cookers are safe, user-friendly and sold at NP Filling Stations and by authorized dealers nationwide. The company also provides gas refills, ensuring continuous usage for customers.

NP (SL) Ltd’s dedication to operating in line with international standards and best practices ensures that customers always receive value for their money. Most NP-affiliated Filling Stations are equipped with modern, calibrated pumping machines that are transparent and accurate in measurement. Pump attendants are courteous, well-mannered and always ready to assist customers.

One satisfied customer, Felix Sesay, an engineer, shared his positive experience with the NP Smart Card: “I always carry my NP Smart Card with me. It’s convenient and secure, allowing me to refuel without needing cash on hand. The card’s security features are unique and reliable.”

In addition to the Smart Card, NP (SL) Ltd has introduced the Access and Energy Pass Card to promote a cashless economy. This smart card offers high-security features, instant SMS notifications and the ability to recharge at designated stations. Customers can also reverse transactions and receive real-time updates, further enhancing convenience.

To improve refueling operations’ efficiency and safety, NP (SL) Ltd recently launched state-of-the-art mobile fuel tanks. Each tank has a 10,000-liter capacity and is equipped with advanced safety and dispensing technology, including real-time monitoring capabilities.

Urgent Action Needed to Combat Encroachment Disasters in Congo Town & Regent Village

July 10, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The Office of the President, Environmental Protection Agency, Office of National Security, National Disaster Management Agency, Freetown City Council and Ministry of Lands must take note of the imminent danger posed by ongoing construction projects of a building that has infringed on Congo Town Bridge in the West End of Freetown and other structures at Regent Village that have blocked the water pathways causing destructive flooding whenever it rains heavily. These encroachment actions have the tendency of causing serious environmental disasters if not promptly addressed.

The Congo Town Bridge, known for its heavy water passage during the rainy season, faces a significant threat from an encroacher who is constructing a building that has the potential of leading to a disaster. The construction’s proximity to the bridge could disrupt the natural flow of water, potentially leading to severe flooding. Immediate action is needed to prevent this environmental hazard.

Regent Village is already experiencing the disastrous effects of recent torrential downpours. Extensive flooding has left homes submerged, with residents facing considerable losses. The community, frustrated and desperate, has reached out to this medium to draw attention to their plight and urge authorities for prompt intervention.

The flooding in Regent Village, which has caused extensive property damage, is largely due to the obstruction of natural water pathways. Unauthorized construction is blamed for blocking these routes, exacerbating the impact of heavy rainfall.

Mariatu Kamara, a long-time resident, highlighted the worsening floods over the past few years, with this year being the worst yet. She noted that the water had no escape route due to construction projects obstructing its natural flow, leading to the destruction of homes and possessions.

Abdulai Koroma, another affected resident, voiced his frustration, stating that they have lost furniture, important documents, and their children’s school materials. He emphasized that this disaster could have been avoided if there had been no indiscriminate building activities. He called on the authorities to ensure that water can flow freely in its usual channels.

Residents of both communities are calling for a coordinated response from all responsible agencies, emphasizing the need for proactive measures. This isn’t just about cleaning up after a flood; it’s about preventing such disasters in the future. The Government is urged to act swiftly and efficiently to avoid further loss of life and property.

Afrigas (SL) Donates NLe20,000 to Disabled Organization for Building Construction Project

July 10, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a testament to its commitment to community welfare, Afrigas (SL) Limited ,a company that designs, manufactures, imports, stores and distributes liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cooking solutions, on July 8, 2024, donated twenty million Leones to a Disabled Organization at the Kissy Terminal Community. The donation, aimed at supporting a building project, to house the United Polio Brothers and Sisters Construction Company, was formalized during a recent meeting at Afrigas’s headquarters on Wilberforce Street in Freetown.

The initiative follows a constructive dialogue facilitated by Councillor Sheku N’Bompa Turay, who engaged with the Chairman of the Disabled Organization, Paul Osman Kabia. Initially, Afrigas Management did not respond immediately due to the vagueness of the initial request, prompting disenchantment among members of the Disabled Organization which led them to say that the company is not supporting community development initiatives during the launch of a Gas Power Plant by President Julius Maada Bio.

Responding to that concern, Management of Afrigas, led by Mr. Jihad Swaid, asked Councillor Sheku N’Bompa Turay to liaise with members of the Organization to really know their specific need for which they were requesting financial assistance.

This led to a formal request, in written form and the subsequent approval of the donation to facilitate the continuation of the building construction to house the United Polio Brothers and Sisters Construction Company.

Councillor Sheku N’Bompa Turay praised Afrigas for its responsiveness, describing the donation as a crucial example of corporate social responsibility. He emphasized the importance of such initiatives in fostering positive community relations and enhancing local development efforts.

Afrigas (SL) Limited has, from time to time, supported community development projects in the Kissy Terminal Community, including the provision of a 20,000-liter water tank valued at over NLe15, 000 to the community, a gesture that is helping to improve the quality of life for residents by ensuring reliable and accessible water supply and funding for street lighting projects aimed at improving safety and quality of life for residents. These efforts underscore Afrigas’s ongoing commitment to addressing immediate community needs and promoting sustainable development.

Moving forward, Afrigas continues to engage with community groups to identify and support initiatives that contribute to the well-being and progress of the communities it serves, solidifying its role as a responsible corporate citizen committed to making a meaningful impact.

President Bio Showcases Government’s One Year Progress and Future Plans

July 10, 2024

By Amin Kef (Ranger)

President Dr. Julius Maada Bio presented the achievements of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) Government during its first 360 days in office on Thursday, July 4, 2024, at State House. The presentation, titled “Consolidating the Gains: A 360-Day Accelerated Delivery,” highlighted progress across the three branches of Government—Legislature, Judiciary and Executive—from June 2023 to June 2024.

Speaker of Parliament, Rtd. Hon. Segepoh Solomon Thomas, reported that the Parliament comprised 149 Members of Parliament (MPs), with 135 directly elected from the country’s 16 districts and 14 being Paramount Chiefs elected from the fourteen rural districts. Of the 135 directly elected MPs, 81 were from the governing SLPP and 54 from the main opposition All People’s Congress (APC). Women held 42 seats, representing 30.4% of the Parliament. The Speaker noted that since its first session in July 2023, the Parliament held 57 plenary sittings, enacting 7 critical bills, 12 statutory and constitutional instruments, ratifying 13 rules, grants and agreements, 4 protocols, conventions and treaties and approving 144 presidential nominees.

Acting Chief Justice, Hon. Justice Nicholas Colin Browne-Marke, expressed gratitude to the President for his appointment. He highlighted significant reforms in the judiciary, including training, appointing new court officials, and expediting case trials. Notably, the judiciary hosted the Legal Legacy of the Special Court of Sierra Leone and the ECOWAS Court’s Conference in Sierra Leone, with support from President Bio.

Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, PhD, detailed the Government’s flagship programme, the FEED SALONE Initiative, which received increased budgetary allocations and support from various stakeholders. He also announced the construction of six new peripheral health units, the installation of 12 oxygen plants, the establishment of the National Public Health Agency, the construction of a pediatric hospital, a reduction in maternal mortality and the nationwide employment of more health practitioners.

Andrew Lavalie, Civil Society Representative and Executive Director of the Institute for Governance Reform (IGR), commended the Government’s efforts in transparency. He noted that of the 536 promises made by the Government before the election, 79% were nearly completed. However, he urged the Government to consider the nation’s losses due to recent unrest, which affected schools, health centers, markets and overall Government function.

President Julius Maada Bio expressed gratitude to his Ministers, the judiciary, the legislative arm of Government, development partners, civil society and the media for their support and attendance. He emphasized the importance of peace and political stability for his Government and acknowledged the challenges faced, including the impact of COVID-19 and political instability. President Bio assured that his Government would maintain its commitment to human capital development and non-interference in the legislative and judiciary branches, promising continued transparency and improvement in governance.

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