In a move hailed as a masterstroke, Sierra Leone’s Minister of Information and Civic Education, Honourable Chernor Bah, has selected two former Information Ministers, Dr. Julius Spencer and Mr. Ibrahim Ben Kargbo, to co-chair the upcoming Civic Festival scheduled for December 11–12, 2024.
Minister Bah, renowned for bridging political divides and rising above party considerations, made this ground-breaking decision to underscore unity and inclusivity. Mr. Kargbo, a veteran journalist and former president of the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists, served as Minister of Information and Communications during former President Ernest Bai Koroma’s administration and is a respected figure in the opposition All People’s Congress (APC). Dr. Spencer, a former Minister of Information in the late President Ahmad Tejan Kabbah’s government, is a distinguished media practitioner and retired lecturer who has significantly contributed to Sierra Leone’s capacity-building efforts.
The appointment of these two prominent figures from opposing political backgrounds has drawn widespread praise, with many calling it a visionary move that exemplifies Minister Bah’s “Salone Big Pas We All” philosophy. Amid a politically charged environment, this decision is seen as a bold step toward depolarizing the political landscape, fostering collaboration, and promoting a healthier political climate for future generations.
Minister Bah, an activist and human rights advocate by background, is rapidly gaining recognition as a stabilizing force and a true embodiment of President Bio’s vision. His approach has redefined political engagement, as demonstrated last week when he personally visited Dr. Spencer to discuss preparations for the festival—a gesture of humility and respect that broke traditional protocol.
The Civic Festival, set to coincide with the anticipated launch of Sierra Leone’s overdue Civic Education program, is expected to be a historic event. By appointing Dr. Spencer and Mr. Kargbo as co-chairs, Minister Bah has showcased his ability to rise above partisanship and prioritize national unity, solidifying his reputation as a beacon of hope in Sierra Leone’s political arena.
