AYV News, February 10, 2026
Sierra Leone’s First Lady, Dr Fatima Maada Bio, has disclosed that she is still expecting an unreserved apology from the Speaker and some Members of Sierra Leone’s Parliament following what she described as mockery she endured in the well of Parliament during the recent State Opening of Parliament.
Speaking exclusively to Wake Up Sierra Leone, Dr Bio questioned the silence surrounding the incident, stressing that the matter remains unresolved. She said the Speaker has yet to apologise, despite the incident occurring in Parliament’s most respected chamber.
“Does somebody have to come and tell you that what happened in your well of Parliament was wrong? To date, the Speaker has never said sorry to me, and I am expecting his apology,” she said, adding that her long-standing service and contribution to the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) should merit basic respect.
Addressing speculation about her relationship with former minister Dr. Sylvia Olayinka Blyden, the First Lady dismissed claims of hostility, describing Dr. Blyden as a sister of over 25 years. She explained that their decision to distance politically was purely to avoid tensions associated with partisan politics.
“She will remain APC, and I will remain SLPP. That will not change,” Dr Bio said, stressing that political differences should not be mistaken for personal conflict.
On women’s political participation, the First Lady expressed pride in Freetown Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyer following her public declaration of interest in contesting for higher political office. She said women who step forward for leadership roles in either the SLPP or APC deserve encouragement and celebration.
She also clarified that no conflict exists between her and Chief Minister Dr David Moinina Sengeh, describing their relationship as one of mutual respect. She dismissed claims of influence over government ministers, noting that ministers are accountable to the President, not to her.
Responding to allegations of misuse of public funds, Dr Bio firmly denied receiving any government salary or personal financial benefit from the state. She stated that since becoming First Lady, the only government-provided asset she has received is an official vehicle.
“I am not part of the government. I don’t work for the government. I work as a humanitarian carrying the title of First Lady because I am married to the President,” she explained, adding that all her initiatives are independently driven.
On internal SLPP politics, Dr Bio addressed criticism over her perceived support for certain political aspirants, arguing that as a paid-up and major financial contributor to the party, she has the right to express political opinions like any other member.
“This idea that I should be silent because I am the President’s wife is unfair. I have worked for this party across the country,” she said.
The First Lady further responded to personal criticisms surrounding her philanthropic support for individuals, including confirming that she pays school fees for Edwina Jamiru as part of her commitment to education and personal development, while distancing herself from unrelated personal controversies.
Reflecting on her humanitarian work, Dr Bio revealed that, with the support of her husband and partners, she has helped facilitate the construction of 15 mosques nationwide, contributed to the renovation of 34 hospitals, and introduced the National Food Basketinitiative during the COVID-19 pandemic. She noted that while she avoids publicising her achievements, her contributions to national welfare remain significant.
She also disclosed that upon her husband’s election as President, she voluntarily declared her assets to the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), stating that the properties were acquired prior to her marriage.
Addressing narratives about her background, Dr Bio rejected portrayals of her as financially dependent before marriage, explaining that she had successful business ventures and a professional career before becoming First Lady.
“Before I got married to President Bio, I was not a beggar. I was married to a footballer for eight years, and I was a model,” she said.
Dr Bio concluded by acknowledging her forthright nature, admitting that she speaks openly and sometimes bluntly, but emphasising that honesty, not political convenience, guides her actions.
