“I Have Faced Him Before: And I Will Face Him Again”

President Bio Confirms Presidential Debate Attendance

By: Christian Conteh

As the June 24 Presidential Election in Sierra Leone draws near, the nation’s political landscape has been enlivened by the announcement of an anticipated presidential debate.

President Julius Maada Bio, known for his recently developed wit and charm, boldly declared his readiness to go head-to-head with his long-time rival, Opposition strongman Samura Kamara, in a battle of words where policies and ideas would be brought to the fore.

President Bio’s declaration came moments after his nomination to run for re-election at the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) office on Tower Hill in Freetown. During the event, Kelvin Lewis, a former President of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), seized the opportunity to ask the President if he would be willing to engage in a presidential debate with Kamara.

With a gleam in his eye, President Bio confidently replied,

“I have faced him before, and the records are there. And I will face him again if there is a debate.”

The room erupted in laughter as the President added, “But I am not ready to go back to 1961,” referring to Kamara’s reference to Sierra Leone’s independence from British colonial rule.

Bio’s remark not only showcased his quick wit but also highlighted the generational divide between the two candidates. While Kamara represents the older political establishment with age and experience, President Bio, who assumed office in 2018, represents a new era of leadership in Sierra Leone. The playful comment was a satirical nod to the past, emphasizing Bio’s focus on progress and a vision for the future.

The forthcoming presidential debate is expected to be a lively affair, as both candidates have distinct ideologies and contrasting visions for the country. President Bio will seek to highlight his achievements during his tenure. Kamara, on the other hand, is expected to emphasize his experience and propose alternative strategies to address the nation’s challenges.

It is expected that the debate will revolve around key issues such as education, healthcare, infrastructure development, and economic diversification. While President Bio’s administration has made notable strides in these areas, significant challenges persist and critics argue that more needs to be done to ensure inclusive growth and sustainable development.

The June 24 Presidential Election is poised to be a closely contested race, with President Bio and Samura Kamara emerging as the frontrunners. Both candidates have a dedicated following, and their campaigns have been marked by spirited rallies and enthusiastic supporters.

As the nation eagerly awaits the highly anticipated presidential debate, Sierra Leoneans are excited about the prospect of witnessing their leaders engage in a battle of words, humour, and political acumen. With President Bio’s charm and Kamara’s experience, the stage is set for a memorable event that will undoubtedly shape the outcome of the upcoming election.

In a nation known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant political landscape, the presidential debate promises to be a spectacle that combines wit, analysis, and a touch of satire. Sierra Leoneans hope that the candidates’ humour and banter will shed light on their respective policies and provide valuable insights into their leadership styles.

In the end, it will be up to the voters to decide which candidate best represents their aspirations and will lead Sierra Leone into a future filled with promise and progress. Until then, the nation eagerly awaits the clash of these political titans on the debate stage, as they vie for the ultimate prize – the presidency of Sierra Leone.