Bio Pledges Peaceful Handover of Power in 2028, Rules Out Third-Term Bid
By Kelvin Jay
President Julius Maada Bio has reaffirmed his commitment to Sierra Leone’s democratic process, declaring that he will peacefully hand over power to the next democratically elected president when his constitutional mandate expires in 2028.
President Bio made the declaration during the peace conference held at the Bintumani Conference Centre, where he stressed that he would not be a candidate in the 2028 presidential election, underscoring what he described as his commitment to constitutional governance, democratic continuity and lasting peace.
“In 2028, I will complete my constitutional mandate and hand over power peacefully to the next democratically elected president,” President Bio declared.
The President’s statement drew attention to the question of political transition and the importance of respecting constitutional term limits in sustaining democratic governance in Sierra Leone.
In a light-hearted moment during his address, President Bio jokingly remarked that he could see members of the opposition All People’s Congress (APC) shaking their heads in response to his declaration.
However, he maintained that his priority was not to remain in office beyond his constitutional mandate, but to build strong and enduring institutions capable of serving the people and safeguarding the country’s peace and stability.
President Bio emphasised that his responsibility at this stage of his leadership was to leave behind institutions that would continue to function effectively in the interest of citizens, regardless of who assumes the presidency after him.
His remarks come at a time when national dialogue, political tolerance and peaceful democratic competition remain central to discussions about Sierra Leone’s political future.
The Bintumani peace conference brought together political leaders and other stakeholders to promote national cohesion, strengthen mutual understanding and encourage a peaceful political environment.
By explicitly ruling himself out of the 2028 presidential race and pledging a peaceful transfer of power, President Bio has placed renewed emphasis on the importance of a credible electoral process and a smooth transition of democratic authority.
Ultimately, the fulfilment of that pledge will be measured not only by the President’s words but also by the conduct of political actors, the independence and effectiveness of democratic institutions, and the ability of all stakeholders to respect the will of the people at the ballot box.
