By Joseph Momoh | D.S Reporter
MAKENI — Former President Ernest Bai Koroma has called for sustained dialogue, mutual respect and trust among Sierra Leone’s current and former political leaders, saying it is the only way to save and sustain the country’s peace.
Koroma made the call on Tuesday, 20th October 2026, during a meeting with a delegation from the Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC) at his residence in Makeni, ahead of the National Unity and Social Cohesion Conference scheduled for October 26–27 at the Bintumani Conference Centre in Freetown, where he is expected to serve as a panelist.
Welcoming the conference as timely and necessary, Koroma urged political leaders to rise above partisan differences. He proposed regular, institutionalized consultations among current and former national leaders, citing Nigeria as an example, and stressed that sustained engagement between himself and President Julius Maada Bio would reassure citizens that national interest comes before political affiliation.
He also recalled his relationship with former President Ahmad Tejan Kabbah and former Vice President Solomon Berewa, describing their communication and mutual respect as a model for how former leaders can continue contributing to national affairs.
Speaking during the meeting, Binta Mansaray, Registrar of the Residual Special Court for Sierra Leone, said the conference must focus on peacebuilding, reconciliation and social cohesion rather than partisan differences.
ICPNC Executive Secretary Hawa Sally Samai welcomed Koroma’s proposal, noting that the Bintumani conference should produce lasting relationships among leaders, not temporary displays of unity. She called for regular meetings, mutual visits and both formal and informal engagements involving the President, former Presidents and former Vice Presidents.
The ICPNC delegation also included Northern Region Coordinator Foday Kanu and Deputy Director of Communications and Outreach Hawa Barrie.
The October 26–27 conference is expected to bring together national stakeholders to promote political tolerance, rebuild public trust and strengthen cooperation.
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