AYV News, September 9, 2026
President Julius Maada Bio has welcomed former President Ernest Bai Koroma back to Sierra Leone, using the occasion of his return to call for renewed unity, peace and a shared commitment to the country’s future.
President Bio received former President Koroma at State House on Sunday, September 6, following Koroma’s return to Freetown after an extended period abroad.
The meeting between the two former political rivals comes at a time when national unity and peaceful political engagement remain central to Sierra Leone’s political discourse.
In welcoming Koroma home, President Bio urged Sierra Leoneans to look beyond political differences and focus on the broader interests of the nation.
“Let us unite in purpose, reinforce our peace, and commit to building a stronger, more prosperous, and hopeful Sierra Leone,” President Bio said.
The statement represents a direct appeal for national cohesion, with the President emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace and working collectively towards Sierra Leone’s development.
Former President Ernest Bai Koroma, who served as President of Sierra Leone from 2007 to 2018, received a high-profile welcome upon his return to Freetown.
The reception brought together senior government officials, political figures and other dignitaries, reflecting the significance attached to the former President’s return.
Koroma’s return has generated considerable public interest, particularly given his prominent role in Sierra Leone’s political history and his leadership of the country for more than a decade.
His arrival also provides an opportunity for renewed political engagement and dialogue, with President Bio’s message placing emphasis on the need for national interests to take precedence over political divisions.
The President’s call for unity comes with a clear message that Sierra Leone’s peace should remain a collective responsibility.
By welcoming a former Head of State who once led the opposition All People’s Congress, President Bio has sought to frame Koroma’s return around reconciliation, peaceful coexistence and the shared responsibility of building the nation.
For many Sierra Leoneans, the return of the former President marks a notable moment in the country’s political landscape.
While political differences remain a feature of democratic societies, President Bio’s message suggests that such differences should not undermine national peace or the country’s broader development aspirations.
As Koroma resumes his presence in Sierra Leone, attention will now turn to the wider implications of his return and the potential for continued engagement among the country’s political actors.
For President Bio, however, the message delivered at State House was clear: Sierra Leone’s future requires unity of purpose.
A former President is home, and the call from the sitting President is one of unity, peace and country first.
