By Ibrahim Sesay
As Sierra Leone stands at a crossroads marked by economic strain, political polarization and a growing yearning for visionary leadership, the question dominating public discourse is simple yet profound: Who can lead us toward national unity and renewal?
For many citizens, analysts, and political observers, the answer is increasingly evident, Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah, widely known as Chericoco.
In a political landscape where trust in leadership has waned and populist rhetoric often overshadows principle, Chericoco emerges as a figure of calm resolve and consistent service. His track record is not built on empty promises or fleeting popularity but on substantive leadership, earned through years of experience and dedication.
Having served three terms in Parliament, held the esteemed role of Deputy Speaker, led the Opposition in the House and chaired Sierra Leone’s delegation to ECOWAS, Chericoco is no political neophyte. His political maturity is complemented by a unique humility and a statesmanlike temperament that has endeared him across party lines and social divides.
What further distinguishes Chericoco is his close mentorship under H.E. Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma (EBK), former President of Sierra Leone and a transformative figure in the country’s recent political history. Under EBK’s stewardship, Sierra Leone made significant strides in infrastructure, energy, international diplomacy and political stabilization. The late President not only reshaped the country’s development agenda but also modernized the All People’s Congress (APC), instilling strategic coherence and institutional discipline.
Chericoco is widely seen as the custodian of that legacy; a man who has internalized EBK’s vision while developing his own identity as a forward-thinking, people-centered leader. His rise has not been propelled by showmanship or opportunism but by commitment to national service, emotional intelligence and a deep understanding of governance dynamics.
In an era where many leaders prioritize noise over nuance, Chericoco stands out for his quiet effectiveness and consistent engagement with the grassroots. Through initiatives such as scholarship programs, women’s empowerment, youth mentorship and community development, he has established himself as a true servant of the people. His leadership model is anchored in empathy, not entitlement.
Within the APC, Chericoco is increasingly regarded as the candidate most capable of unifying the party’s divergent wings and ushering in a period of disciplined renewal. He commands trust among both elders and the youth, drawing respect from across the political spectrum. More importantly, he speaks the language of reconciliation, inclusivity and hope; elements sorely needed in a fragmented national climate.
He has demonstrated a rare ability to listen more than he speaks, to build rather than to boast and to lead without arrogance. At a time when politics often rewards populism over principle, Chericoco has held firm to values of unity, competence and nation-first governance.
Crucially, he understands the real and pressing challenges facing Sierra Leoneans; youth unemployment, failing health systems, inadequate infrastructure and rising inequality. Yet he has never resorted to weaponizing those issues for personal gain. Instead, he has spent years engaging with communities, crafting policy ideas and preparing to govern with both vision and pragmatism.
If given the mandate, Chericoco is expected to surround himself not with praise-singers, but with credible, capable and patriotic minds from all regions of Sierra Leone. He is seen as someone who will govern not with vengeance but with vision and not through ego but principled leadership.
This is the leadership Sierra Leone urgently needs—measured, mature and mission-driven. A leader, who can protect the gains of the past while boldly confronting the challenges of the present. A leader, who not only evokes applause but earns genuine, lasting respect. A leader prepared to govern on day one, because he has already demonstrated what effective leadership looks like; in conduct, character and community service.
In the grand narrative of Sierra Leone’s political evolution, few figures embody the clarity, competence and compassion of Chericoco. He is the bridge between the APC’s historic legacy and its future relevance. More than that, he is the glue that can hold a divided nation together.
As the country prepares for a new chapter, Sierra Leone must rise above distractions and divisions. It must choose maturity over noise, unity over partisanship and leadership over theatrics.
This moment calls for foresight. The people deserve a better path. And Chericoco may well be the leader to take us there.
