President Dr. Julius Maada Bio has reaffirmed his full confidence in the newly elected National Chairman of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), Jimmy Batilo Songa, urging party members to rally behind the new leadership in the interest of unity, discipline and effective party organisation.
The President made those remarks while delivering the keynote address at the Inauguration and Fundraising Dinner of the new SLPP National Executive Council, held on Wednesday, 17 December 2025, at the Freetown International Conference Centre. The event brought together party faithful from across the country and the diaspora, marking a significant milestone in the party’s leadership transition.
In a strong show of support for the new party leadership, President Bio described Chairman Batilo Songa as a tested, disciplined and loyal party man whose commitment to the ideals of the SLPP is beyond question. He called on party members at all levels to work with and through the Chairman, stressing that a firm and respected leadership is essential for internal cohesion and electoral success.
“When the Chairman stands firm, the Party stands firm,” President Bio declared, noting that unity within the party enables him, as Party Leader and President of the Republic, to concentrate fully on the responsibilities of governing the nation. He emphasized that internal stability within the SLPP remains critical to sustaining effective governance and advancing the party’s national agenda.
The President described the inauguration ceremony as more than a formal occasion, but a moment of renewal and recommitment to the values that have sustained the SLPP throughout its long history. He reminded members that the party’s strength does not lie in individual personalities, but in shared principles, discipline and respect for democratic institutions and processes.
President Bio cautioned against internal discord and unnecessary distractions, warning that division weakens the party and undermines its collective mission. He noted that the SLPP’s historic electoral victories have always been anchored on unity, discipline and a shared sense of purpose, rather than noise, provocation or personal ambition. While acknowledging that competition is a natural part of democracy, he urged members to manage differences responsibly and within established party structures.
Reflecting on the SLPP’s role in national development, the President highlighted key governance achievements under the party’s leadership and reaffirmed its commitment to building a resilient and inclusive economy. He pointed to ongoing efforts in institutional reform, human capital development and social protection as part of the party’s broader vision of preparing Sierra Leone for the future.
As the party looks ahead to the 2028 general elections and beyond, President Bio underscored the importance of continuity, discipline and orderly leadership transitions. He called on the new National Executive Council to provide strategic direction, strengthen party structures nationwide and inspire confidence among supporters.
Concluding his address, President Bio urged members to leave the event with renewed confidence and collective resolve to strengthen the SLPP, deepen internal democracy and continue building “the Sierra Leone we are becoming,” anchored on unity, discipline and a shared national purpose.
