Positive Sign Of Reconciliation… Ex-President Koroma To Play Greater Role in Nation Building
Former President of Sierra Leone, His Excellency Dr Ernest Bai Koroma, has returned home with a renewed commitment to contribute to peacebuilding, national cohesion and the development of the country.
Speaking following his return, the former President expressed appreciation to the many individuals and institutions that contributed to the process that enabled him to come back to Sierra Leone. He particularly highlighted the important role played by Parliament and described the institution’s intervention as significant to the broader efforts that helped sustain dialogue and national engagement.
Dr Koroma recalled receiving a high-powered parliamentary delegation comprising the Speaker of Parliament, Deputy Speaker, Majority Leader, Deputy Majority Leader, Leader of the Minority, Deputy Minority Leader, the Clerk of Parliament and other Members of Parliament.
According to him, the engagement demonstrated a positive spirit among the country’s political actors and contributed to efforts aimed at maintaining peace and stability.
He also expressed gratitude to members of the media and ordinary Sierra Leoneans who continued to show him support during his absence. He acknowledged the telephone calls, messages and other forms of encouragement he received, saying such gestures played an important role in sustaining him.
“Home will always be home,” Dr Koroma said, stressing that there could never be a substitute for being back in Sierra Leone.
The former President said he returned home refreshed and determined to continue contributing to the country, particularly through initiatives focused on peace, national cohesion and youth development.
He said his experience in public service had given him considerable knowledge that he believes can still be useful to Sierra Leone, despite his retirement from active political office.
Dr Koroma explained that retirement should not be interpreted as the end of one’s contribution to national development. Instead, he said former leaders and experienced citizens still have important roles to play by providing advice, counselling and guidance to the younger generation.
He said he intends to dedicate more time to his office and foundation, using them as platforms to support initiatives that respond to the needs of Sierra Leoneans.
A major area of focus, he indicated, would be young people across the country. He said the younger generation requires proper guidance, counselling and constructive leadership as Sierra Leone works to strengthen peace and national unity.
Dr Koroma also emphasised the importance of national cohesion, suggesting that the country’s development depends on citizens and political leaders working together despite their differences.
He thanked President Julius Maada Bio for facilitating the process that enabled his return home, describing the President’s role as important.
His return marks another significant moment in Sierra Leone’s continuing efforts to promote political dialogue, peace and reconciliation. With his extensive experience in national leadership, Dr Koroma is expected to remain an influential voice in discussions on governance, peacebuilding and the future of Sierra Leone.
The former President’s message was clear: although he has retired from political office, he does not consider himself retired from serving his country.
He said he is back home, refreshed and ready to continue offering advice, supporting young people and working through his foundation to contribute to national development.
For Dr Koroma, the next chapter is therefore not about returning to political power, but about using his experience, knowledge and relationships to help strengthen peace, unity and development across Sierra Leone.
