𝐄𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐊𝐨𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐚 𝐑𝐞𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐬 𝐓𝐨 𝐒𝐢𝐞𝐫𝐫𝐚 𝐋𝐞𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐀𝐟𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐁𝐢𝐨 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐨𝐧

In a landmark moment for Sierra Leone, former President Ernest Bai Koroma has returned to the country to attend the 69th ECOWAS Ordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government, following a recent presidential pardon from his successor, President Julius Maada Bio. This high-profile return signals a significant shift in the political climate, showcasing a united front as Freetown steps into the spotlight of regional diplomacy.

Koroma, who had been living abroad amid legal and political challenges, returned to a rapidly evolving Freetown. His appearance at the summit alongside President Bio surprised many and served as a potent symbol of national unity. In an emotional statement shared on his Facebook page, he reflected on this historic occasion, stating, “Today, history is being made as Sierra Leone proudly hosts the 69th ECOWAS Ordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government in Lungi. This is a moment of great national pride.”

During his address, Koroma praised President Bio’s leadership, highlighting the newly constructed Julius Maada Bio International Conference Centre as a testament to Sierra Leone’s role in regional diplomacy. “We thank President Julius Maada Bio for his leadership in positioning Sierra Leone at the center of regional diplomacy,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of this state-of-the-art facility hosting West African leaders. Bio’s assumption of the ECOWAS Authority chairmanship was also recognized as a significant milestone for Sierra Leone’s global standing.

Koroma’s statement also honoured the legacy of former President Ahmad Tejan Kabbah, acknowledging his vital role in rebuilding the nation post-civil war. He expressed confidence in Bio continuing to strengthen Sierra Leone’s position in regional and continental affairs.

While the summit addressed critical issues of peace, security, democracy, and economic integration, the defining story for Sierra Leoneans was the visual of two prominent political leaders standing together. Koroma concluded with a heartfelt message: “One nation. One people. One proud Sierra Leone. May God bless our beloved nation and continue to guide its leaders toward peace, progress, and prosperity.”