By Amin Kef (Ranger)
President Julius Maada Bio and the First Lady, Fatima Maada Bio, on Monday January 5, 2026 joined members of the Lebanese community, family, friends and political supporters at funeral prayers for the late Talal Saleh Fawaz, popularly known as Junior Bio, who passed away at the age of 61.
The Janazah prayers were held at the Lebanese Islamic Cultural Association headquarters on Kingharman Road in Freetown and attracted a distinguished gathering of senior Government officials, party stakeholders and prominent members of the Lebanese community. Among those present were Nour Hashim, Ahmed Hashim, widely known as VIP, Rodney Michael and other Lebanese community leaders, underscoring the respect and affection the late Talal Saleh Fawaz commanded across social and political divides.
During the solemn ceremony, President Bio paid tribute to the late Talal Saleh Fawaz for his steadfast loyalty and visible contributions during the 2023 presidential campaign. The President recalled Talal Saleh Fawaz as a committed supporter of the Paopa movement who actively participated in campaign activities across several districts and chiefdoms, offering both moral and practical support throughout the period.
“Wherever I went during the campaign, he was there,” President Bio said while consoling the bereaved family. “To many, he may have appeared to be an ordinary man, but to me, he was a true and loyal supporter who believed deeply in my leadership.” The President described the late Talal Saleh Fawaz as a humble individual whose dedication was driven by conviction rather than recognition.
President Bio further offered prayers for Allah’s mercy, asking that the late Talal Saleh Fawaz’s shortcomings be forgiven and that his soul be granted eternal rest in Al-Jannah. The First Lady also extended heartfelt condolences to the family, encouraging them to draw strength from faith and the collective support shown by mourners from all walks of life.
Speaking on behalf of the bereaved family and the Lebanese community in Sierra Leone, Ahmed Hashim (VIP) expressed profound appreciation to the President, the First Lady, Government officials and party representatives for honouring the late Talal Saleh Fawaz with their presence. He said the gesture reaffirmed the sense of inclusion and national belonging enjoyed by the Lebanese community.
“Your Excellences, Mr. President and First Lady, we are deeply honoured by your attendance,” Ahmed Hashim said. “Your presence brings comfort to the family at this difficult time and reflects the strong bond between our community and the people of Sierra Leone.” He added that the show of solidarity had provided reassurance and strength to the family as they mourned their loss.
Ahmed Hashim noted that while the family grieves, they are encouraged by the unity displayed during the ceremony. He prayed for eternal peace for the departed and invited the Chief Imam of the Lebanese community to lead recitations from the Holy Qur’an.
The funeral programme featured Qur’anic recitations by the Chief Imam, followed by the Janazah prayer for the late Talal Saleh Fawaz. The gathering concluded in a calm and reflective atmosphere, with mourners offering prayers and condolences.
The ceremony not only marked a dignified farewell to Talal Saleh Fawaz but also highlighted the spirit of inter-community harmony, shared faith and national unity that continues to define Sierra Leone’s diverse social fabric.
