In a fitting tribute to a career rooted in public service and people-centered leadership, Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah, alias Hon. Chericoco, was on Wednesday, 30th July, 2025, honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the 50 Most Influential Sierra Leonean Women Awards Committee, led by the Kids Advocacy Network.
The ceremony, held in Freetown, recognised Hon. Chericoco’s tireless dedication to peacebuilding, democratic governance, and the protection of women and children’s rights throughout his 15-year parliamentary career. As both Deputy Speaker of Parliament and later Leader of the Opposition, his leadership was marked by moderation, unity, and deep respect for democratic institutions.
Presenting the award, Chairman Edmond Alim B. Fornah hailed Hon. Chericoco as a “bridge-builder” whose calm demeanour and principled stance were instrumental during some of Sierra Leone’s most politically sensitive moments. “He chose dialogue over division, and inclusion over exclusion,” Chairman Fornah emphasised, noting Hon. Chericoco’s role in stabilising parliamentary procedures and advocating for fair representation.
Alimatu Jalloh, Deputy Executive Director of the Kids Advocacy Network, praised Hon. Chericoco’s long-standing advocacy for gender equality and child protection. She recalled his bold moves to oppose discriminatory laws against pregnant schoolgirls and his role in ensuring young mothers retained the right to education, efforts that shifted national policy and social attitudes alike. “He did not just support the cause of women and girls, he championed it,” she stated.
In his remarks, Hon. Chericoco expressed heartfelt gratitude for the recognition and commended the organisers for their continuous efforts in spotlighting change makers across Sierra Leone. He reaffirmed his enduring commitment to justice, equity, and inclusive development, especially for marginalised communities. “This award is not just a recognition of past work; it is a call to remain steadfast in the pursuit of a Sierra Leone where every citizen, regardless of gender or background, has the opportunity to thrive,” Hon. Chericoco said.
The Lifetime Achievement Award stands as a powerful symbol of Hon. Chericoco’s legacy, one defined not by political ambition, but by servant leadership, integrity, and a profound desire to build a peaceful and just Sierra Leone for generations to come.
By Amb. Pen Pusher, Coco Media
