By Kelvin Jay
His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio has issued a stern warning to politicians seeking to ascend to the country’s highest office through what he described as “mago mago” politics, saying anyone hoping to succeed him through underhanded or manipulative means should be prepared to wait.
Speaking during the official opening of the new Sierra Leone People’s Party office in Koidu, President Bio stressed that leadership transition in Sierra Leone must be guided by democratic principles, constitutional processes, and the will of the people — not secret political arrangements or backdoor dealings.
Without naming any individual, the President’s remarks come at a time when speculation is growing over who may emerge as the ruling party’s next flagbearer ahead of the country’s future elections. He cautioned against attempts to gain political advantage through political maneuvering, insisting that national leadership should only be determined through legitimate democratic processes.
Bio also called on party members to remain united and committed, noting that the opening of the new party office in Kono symbolizes the SLPP’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its grassroots structures across the country.
Political analysts believe the President’s statement is likely to intensify internal discussions within the ruling party, as conversations around succession continue to gain traction. Many supporters have interpreted his comments as a direct warning to individuals already positioning themselves for the next presidential race.
