Former VP Victor Foh and Hon. Alpha Khan Salute President Koroma at ECOWAS Summit
By Hon. Alpha Ben Mansaray
The interactions between former President Dr. Ernest Bai Koroma, former Vice President Ambassador Victor Bockarie Foh, and Hon. Alpha Khan during the recent ECOWAS Summit have generated widespread discussion on social media, with many offering differing interpretations of what transpired.
Some commentators focused on the moment Ambassador Victor Foh was escorted by SLPP National Chairman Jimmy Batilo Songa, suggesting political symbolism in the gesture. Others claimed that Foreign Affairs Minister Timothy Kabba encouraged Hon. Alpha Khan to approach and greet the former President shortly before the two exchanged pleasantries.
However, from my vantage point at the summit, the atmosphere told a much broader story.
Throughout the event, diplomats, ECOWAS commissioners, government officials, and distinguished guests from across West Africa eagerly greeted President Koroma. His arrival attracted considerable attention, with many dignitaries taking the opportunity to exchange greetings and engage with him. His presence undoubtedly added prominence to the summit, reflecting the respect he continues to command within the sub-region.
No Deliberate Snub
Contrary to claims circulating online, I did not witness President Koroma snub Hon. Alpha Khan.
When Alpha Khan approached him, President Koroma greeted him warmly with a smile before turning his attention to other dignitaries waiting to interact with him. Considering the scale of the ECOWAS Summit and the number of people seeking his attention, it would be misleading to interpret the brief exchange as a deliberate act of disrespect.
Had circumstances permitted, I believe President Koroma would have gladly spent more time engaging with Alpha Khan and many others present.
The Meeting with Victor Foh
The manner in which Ambassador Victor Foh was escorted by Jimmy Batilo Songa attracted considerable attention, largely because of Songa’s imposing stature. While I personally would have preferred that the former Vice President approached on his own, what mattered most was the cordial exchange that followed.
Standing only a few metres away, I observed President Koroma warmly receive Ambassador Victor Foh. Their greeting was respectful, cordial, and devoid of any hostility. Any awkwardness perceived in photographs or video clips can easily be explained by the natural height difference between the two men, something that has often been noticeable whenever they have greeted each other over the years.
Respect Beyond Sierra Leone
Beyond the social media commentary lies a more significant reality. President Koroma continues to enjoy considerable respect among current and former Heads of State, diplomats, and regional institutions across West Africa.
His years in office, his contributions to democratic governance, regional peace, and political stability have earned him recognition as one of the region’s respected elder statesmen. His participation at ECOWAS events is not merely ceremonial but reflects the esteem in which many regional leaders continue to hold him.
Looking Ahead
As President Koroma prepares for his eventual return to Sierra Leone, many citizens hope his experience and influence will be directed toward promoting national unity, reconciliation, democratic dialogue, and peaceful coexistence.
At a time when Sierra Leone continues to navigate political differences, many believe his voice could help bridge divides and contribute to the country’s stability and development.
While social media will inevitably generate varying interpretations of isolated moments, the broader picture from the ECOWAS Summit was one of mutual respect, maturity, and statesmanship. Rather than focusing on speculative narratives, the attention should remain on the opportunities that President Koroma’s return presents for national cohesion, reconciliation, and the continued progress of Sierra Leone.
