By: Saidu Jalloh
In a recent social media video, the First Lady of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Madam Fatima Maada Bio, directly addressed and refuted allegations surrounding her alleged involvement in the demolition of a church at Wilberforce Barracks, Freetown. She emphatically denied any connection to the incident and clarified that she was responding to the rumors due to their religious nature. However, she announced a new policy in her office for 2024, stating that she would no longer respond to social media rumors.
Madam Fatima emphasized Sierra Leone’s commitment to religious tolerance, noting that the country sets an example in this regard. She highlighted the religious diversity in her own household, with her husband being a Catholic Christian while she is a devout Muslim. She expressed disappointment in the way the situation was handled on social media and criticized those who did not seek her side of the story before spreading information.
The First Lady stated that she had never visited the church in question, nor did she know its location. She expressed dismay at the false allegations circulating online and discredited the story, stating that she has no time for pettiness and idleness. Madam Fatima presented a letter from the Ministry of Defence that was sent to all illegal occupants, explaining that demolition would take place as part of a broader effort to address unauthorized structures.
She clarified her approach, stating that she doesn’t break things but instead focuses on fixing them. Madam Fatima highlighted her contributions to healthcare, mentioning that she had increased the capacity of 34 Hospital from 70 to 600 beds. She also pointed out that she and her husband are involved in the construction of both St. Luis Church and mosques in 34 Barracks.
Addressing her constraints, Madam Fatima expressed that she has nothing to lose and no political ambitions. Her sole focus, she reiterated, was the successful reelection of her husband, which has already been achieved. She concluded by urging people not to involve her in any political gimmicks, as the election is over, and her husband has emerged victorious.
