MAKENI, Bombali District – Former President Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma on Monday declared himself available as a father figure and adviser to every Sierra Leonean, regardless of political affiliation, as he received a jubilant welcome back to his hometown.
Addressing a large crowd at Wusum Field, Koroma said he was ready to offer guidance not only to the All People’s Congress (APC) but also to the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) and any other organisation working for the good of the country.
“I am available to serve as a father figure and adviser not only for the APC but the SLPP and any other organisations in Sierra Leone,” he told supporters, traditional leaders and stakeholders who had gathered to celebrate his return.
The former Head of State, who governed from 2007 to 2018, returned permanently to Sierra Leone earlier this month after more than two years in Nigeria. He had left the country in 2024 while facing treason and related charges linked to the November 2023 attacks on military and prison facilities. Those charges were discontinued by the government in July 2026, paving the way for his homecoming with the support of President Julius Maada Bio, ECOWAS and the Nigerian authorities.
Koroma thanked President Bio for the assurances of safety, security and full recognition of his status as a former head of state.
He also expressed deep appreciation to the people of Makeni and Sierra Leoneans at large for their steadfast support during his absence.
He announced that he would channel his efforts through his foundation, engaging political parties, civil society and other stakeholders to seek advice and support for national progress.
Stressing that Sierra Leone needs peace and national cohesion above all else, Koroma said the country’s growth must be centred on development that benefits every citizen and future generations.
“I will use my platform to bring my international connections to help in the development of Sierra Leone,” he stated.
While confirming that he remains an APC member, Koroma made it clear he would neither contest the party chairmanship nor seek the presidency again.
He urged APC leaders and members to reject internal divisions and treat all supporters fairly, regardless of personal loyalties.
The gathering was attended by Resident Minister Northeast Ibrahim Jalloh, Makeni City Mayor Abubakarr Lamtales Kamara, the Mayor of Freetown, APC party officials, district council chairmen, Members of Parliament and traditional leaders. Many described the occasion as a hopeful homecoming that renewed prospects for unity and grassroots development in the northeast.
Koroma’s message of inclusivity and his offer to serve beyond party lines come as Sierra Leone looks toward the 2028 general elections, with many viewing his return as a contribution to broader efforts at political reconciliation and national stability.
