By: Precious Miracle Kargbo
His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio has addressed the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) during the party’s Inaugural Dinner and Victory Dance on December 17, 2025, at the Bintumani Center. He called on the party to embody discipline, unity, and integrity as it enters a new era under the leadership of Chairman Jimmy Batilo Songa.
In his speech, President Bio emphasized that the SLPP’s identity is shaped not by its past but by its evolving vision for a better Sierra Leone. “Sierra Leone is not defined by yesterday’s limits but guided by discipline and clarity. The future is not organized by chance but by structure,” he said. He urged party members to recommit to the SLPP’s core values of solidarity, discipline, and integrity, noting that the party’s strength lies in unity and collective effort.
The President expressed gratitude to the organizers, diaspora members, national leaders, and public servants for their loyalty and service. He stated that the SLPP is “now owned not by position but by discipline and integrity.” He thanked the outgoing chairman, Dr. Prince Harding, for laying a solid foundation for the party and welcomed Chairman Jimmy Batilo Songa, urging him to lead with discipline and courage.
President Bio stressed the importance of discipline within the party, noting, “The greatest victory doesn’t come from voice but from unity, discipline, and shared responsibility.” He called on party members to respect the chain of command, with the chairman managing day-to-day party affairs while the leader provides political direction.
Highlighting the party’s achievements over the past two decades, including improvements in education, security, healthcare, and youth opportunities, the President urged the new leadership to continue this progress and ensure a fair and transparent flag bearer process in 2028.
In his remarks, Chairman Jimmy Batilo Songa welcomed President Bio and other dignitaries, outlining the party’s vision for stability, maturity, and national direction. He emphasized that the new leadership reflects a culture of unity, discipline, and accountability. “We will continue to embody stability, maturity, and national direction,” he affirmed.
Chairman Songa called on party members to work together, prioritize unity, and take ownership of their roles in shaping Sierra Leone’s future. He expressed gratitude to the outgoing executive for guiding the party through a critical period and specifically thanked Dr. Prince Alex Harding for his dedication, commitment, and loyalty, noting that his contributions will be remembered in the party’s history.
The Chairman also acknowledged the tireless efforts of grassroots members, women, youths, and loyalists in promoting the party’s cause. He pledged to work closely with all stakeholders, listen to their concerns, and provide meaningful pathways for their leadership.
“We are committed to protecting peace and unity within the party,” Chairman Songa stated. “We will work together to ensure the SLPP remains a strong and vibrant force in Sierra Leonean politics.”
The event, attended by senior government officials, party members, and dignitaries, marked a new chapter in the SLPP’s history. The party’s leadership is expected to build on President Bio’s legacy and continue driving the country’s development agenda.