Freetown, Sierra Leone – In a pointed call for unity and discipline within the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio has urged party members to thoroughly read and adhere to the party’s constitution, describing it as an “interesting and instructive document” that encapsulates the core values guiding the organization.
Speaking via a social media post on Facebook, Dr. Bio specifically highlighted Articles 16A to 16D, which she portrayed not as mere technicalities but as provisions that underscore the party’s commitment to structure, discipline, and integrity.
“I am a proud paid-up Distinguished Grand Chief Patron of our great party,” she declared, emphasizing her own longstanding membership and dedication.
The First Lady’s message stressed that internal politics should be driven by a genuine call to service rather than personal ambition or the pursuit of power.
She reiterated the importance of living by the constitution, stating, “Let us read our Constitution… Most importantly let us live by it,” to foster accountability, respect for due process, and institutional order. Dr. Bio further noted that true patriotism begins with service to humanity, demonstrated through sacrifice, humility, and a focus on uplifting the people of Sierra Leone.
This exhortation comes at a pivotal time for the SLPP, which has held power since President Julius Maada Bio’s election in 2018 and his re-election in 2023. The party is preparing for its 2026 National Delegates Conference, where it plans to adopt a new constitution, potentially reshaping internal governance and leadership structures. Recent announcements from opposition parties, such as the All People’s Congress (APC) revealing its venue for a similar 2026 conference, highlight the intensifying political landscape ahead of the 2028 general elections.
Dr. Bio’s focus on Articles 16A-16D has fueled speculation, as these sections reportedly outline qualifications for party leadership and presidential candidacy. Social media discussions have pointed out that the First Lady meets these criteria, amid growing rumors of her own potential ambitions for higher office.
In a recent interview, Dr. Bio addressed such rumors cryptically, stating that leadership decisions would only proceed “when God speaks,” neither confirming nor denying interest in a flagbearer role. This follows other SLPP figures, like Anti-Corruption Commission boss Francis Ben Kaifala, publicly confirming their bids for the party’s flagbearer position.
The First Lady’s involvement in party affairs has not been without controversy. Past reports have accused her of influencing internal elections, including allegations of bribing delegates during a 2021 women’s leadership contest, though these claims remain unsubstantiated and have been denied by her supporters. More recently, SLPP aspirant Musa Tarawally accused her of fueling attacks against rivals, underscoring ongoing tensions within the party.
As the SLPP gears up for its conference and potential leadership transitions, Dr. Bio’s call serves as a reminder of the need for constitutional fidelity to maintain unity and safeguard Sierra Leone’s democratic progress.
