Two prominent figures among those appointed are the former Executive Secretary of National Commission for Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration (NCDDR), Dr. Francis M. Kaikai. Another is journalist and publisher of Observer Newspaper, Jonathan Leigh.
It could be recalled that Dr. Francis M. Kaikai served in different capacities during the country’s transition period from war to peace.
Prior to that, during Brig. Rtd. Julius Maada Bio’s three months tenure as Head of State under the National Provisional Ruling Council (NPRC), Dr. Kaikai was appointed Sectary of State for Education.
Later, he served as Director of the National Commission for Reconciliation, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction (NCRRR) otherwise called the Triple ‘R’ Commission and later became the Executive Director of the then National Commission for Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration (NCDDR).
The above was a flagship programme of the then SLPP government which saw the total disarmament, demobilization and reintegration of ex-combatants as well as the successful implementation of the country’s first Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper (PRSP).
Dr. Kaikai also headed the Development Assistance Coordinating Office (DACO), then in the Office of the President. After performing diligently in all those assignments, he left in 2005 for the UN Mission in Sudan recently wrapped up his assignment with the UN Mission in Liberia.
He told this press sometime ago that he has decided to return home, which, he said, coincides with a change of government and the return of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) to power under President Brig. Rtd. Julius Maada Bio.
In that encounter, he stated that he is very excited over the change of government. “I believe Sierra Leone has good prospect to embark on a more sustainable development trajectory in the next five to ten years,” he said.
Asked if he was prepared for public service, the learned Doctor replied: “I am willing to serve the nation in an appropriate capacity if I am called upon.”
He underscored the fact that it is time for younger professionals to take up the task of state building, nation-building and governance.
