The Leader of the Opposition in Sierra Leone’s Parliament, Honourable Abdul Kargbo, has publicly issued a correction to Chief Minister David Moinina Sengeh regarding the country’s past leadership of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government.
The exchange unfolded following Chief Minister Sengeh’s celebratory message congratulating President Julius Maada Bio. Sengeh had written, “Congratulations, H.E President Bio @julius_maadabio, on being the first Sierra Leonean President to serve as Chairman of the Authority of Heads of States and Governments of ECOWAS. Sierra Leone also sits on the UN Security Council today. Together #WeAreDelivering.”
However, Honourable Kargbo swiftly intervened with a direct counter-statement, aiming to correct what he perceived as a factual error.
In a pointed message, Kargbo stated, “Somebody please remind Moinina David Sengeh that Siaka Stevens was the first President of Sierra Leone to serve as Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government from 1981 to 1982. He held that position after Gnassingbé Eyadéma of Togo and before Mathieu Kérékou of Benin.”
On Sunday 22, 2025, President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone has officially assumed the Chairmanship of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), marking a historic moment as the first Sierra Leonean Head of State to hold this prestigious position.
The announcement has been met with great national pride, as President Bio takes on a role that symbolizes renewed commitment to unity, peace, security, and sustainable development across the West African region. Known for his democratic credentials and consistent pursuit of social and economic progress, President Bio is widely seen as a transformative leader ready to steer ECOWAS through challenging times.
In his new role, President Bio has outlined four key strategic priorities: restoring constitutional order and deepening democracy; revitalizing regional security cooperation; unlocking economic integration; and building institutional credibility. These pillars are expected to guide ECOWAS’ efforts toward regional stability, economic prosperity, and enhanced cooperation among member states.
Kargbo’s intervention underscores a keen eye for historical accuracy within the opposition, publicly highlighting what he views as an oversight by a senior government official.
The “lecture” serves to clarify the historical record as President Bio embarks on his tenure as ECOWAS Chairman, emphasizing that while it is a significant achievement, it is not the first time a Sierra Leonean leader has held the esteemed regional position.
