“I Dealt With President Bio Directly, Not Through Gossip”…Says Former Chief Minister
By Kelvin Jay
Former Chief Minister and Finance Minister, Jacob Jusu Saffa, has highlighted his professional work ethic during his time in government, noting that he prioritized duty over distractions.
Speaking in an interview on Truth Media, Saffa stated that whenever he met President Julius Maada Bio, he ensured he was fully prepared. “At any time I went to the President, I carried along my pen and paper because I don’t like gossip about people—I focus on my job,” he said.
Saffa’s remarks came as part of a broader discussion on governance and the future of the Sierra Leone People’s Party. He asserted that the party stands a strong chance of winning the 2028 elections, but only if it addresses the issue of public scandals that have affected its image.
“As a government, they should try by all possible means to reduce public scandal,” he emphasized, stressing the need to rebuild public trust.
Reflecting on his political journey, Saffa disclosed that while he played an active role in the last election, he has now chosen to step back from frontline politics, citing his reluctance to continue spending personal resources. “I am going to support the next flagbearer of the SLPP, but for now I have decided to stay back,” he noted.
He clarified that he has no intention of contesting for the party’s flagbearer position, although he revealed that he already has a preferred candidate, whose identity he will disclose at the appropriate time.
Addressing his removal from office, Saffa said he does not believe he was dismissed due to inefficiency, though he admitted feeling hurt by the decision. He also indicated that his relationship with President Bio is no longer as close as it once was.
Saffa further called on the government to design an emergency response plan to tackle current economic challenges, particularly the rising cost of fuel.
His comments add to the ongoing national discourse on leadership, accountability, and economic management in Sierra Leone.
