The Call For Political Dialogue, What Endeavors Has President Bio Not Done?
By Sheku Tanga
Abuja
Federal Republic of Nigeria
*Date: 23 August, 2023*
In Sierra Leone’s current political landscape, the All People’s Congress Party (APC), the main opposition party, is at long last advocating for a dialogue platform.
The APC has however expressed concerns about the fear of marginalisation by the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) government, even as the APC claims to be seeking active participation in the nation’s governance
Looking at this self-imposed Apc fear, the pertinent query arises: What endeavors has President Bio not undertaken to bridge the multifaceted gaps—be they political, regional, or tribal—within Sierra Leone? He has done far more than his critics are willing to credit him for.
President Julius Maada Bio’s accomplishments include his instrumental role in ending the civil war and reinstating democracy after the military coup that ousted the APC’s single-party misrule.
His actions garnered him the accolade of “Father of Democracy.”
Throughout his tenure, President Bio has consistently displayed statesmanship by urging all citizens and political factions to unite for the sake of peace and stability.
A noteworthy instance occurred in March 2019, at State House in Freetown, when President Bio engaged the leadership of all political parties in a consultative meeting.
This marked the inception of his inclusive governance strategy, focused on national cohesion, peace, security, and development. During the meeting, President Bio emphasized the transition from politics to governance, asserting that despite differing paths, all parties aim for Sierra Leone’s best interest.
He stressed that dialogue among political divides was crucial for national progress and social unity.
Even when his government faced a brazen attack on August 10 during his absence on official duties, President Bio prioritized the peace roadmap. Upon his return, he engaged members of the *Inter-Religious Council of Sierra Leone* as part of broader efforts for peace and unity. In a display of magnanimity, he ditched a much feared political witch-hunt exercise, instead formed a committee to investigate the culprits behind the violent August 10 demonstration that resulted in fatalities.
Despite his vast powers to quell public unrest and acts destabilizing the state, President Bio consistently exhibited restraint, allowing the legal process to prevail.
President Bio’s dedication to inclusiveness, national cohesion, and fostering peace and development remains evident.
As the architect of Sierra Leone’s democracy, he strives to cultivate a shared vision of a harmonious society.
He firmly believes that every segment of the population, including opposition parties like the APC, plays a pivotal role in preventing and resolving conflicts detrimental to national well-being.
In a poignant address during the opening of the sixth parliament of Sierra Leone’s second Republic on August 3, 2023, President Bio reiterated the imperative of dialogue and negotiation to bridge political divisions.
He underscored the urgency of finding common ground in a parliament devoid of a two-thirds majority, emphasizing unity’s power to propel democracy’s stability, progress, and prosperity.
In conclusion, President Bio’s legacy embodies a pursuit of peace, exemplified by his commitment to dialogue and inclusivity.
It is vital that the APC and other opposition parties, embrace peace and refrain from negatively portraying Sierra Leone.
The nation’s unity transcends party lines, and President Bio’s tireless efforts to unify the nation underscore his dedication to a harmonious present and a prosperous future.
