By Kelvin Jay
President Julius Maada Bio has addressed growing public speculation about his health, firmly dismissing claims that he is battling cancer and clarifying that his recent physical changes are the result of a deliberate effort to lose weight.
Speaking during Eid prayers, the President used the occasion to respond directly to critics and rumours circulating on social media regarding his body weight and facial appearance in recent months.
“When I was working to put my body down, many people were saying I have been infected with cancer. Inshallah, God will never give me cancer,” President Bio stated.
He emphasized that his weight loss is voluntary and part of a personal decision to improve his health and fitness, rather than any underlying medical condition.
The President further addressed the speculation surrounding his wellbeing, stressing that matters of life and death are ultimately in God’s hands. “I will only go to God at the time He has ordained, and nobody in this world will determine that,” he added.
His remarks come amid heightened public discussion and concern over his appearance, with many observers drawing their own conclusions prior to his clarification.
President Bio’s statement is expected to put to rest ongoing rumours, while also highlighting the growing influence of public scrutiny and social media commentary on the personal lives of political leaders.
The comments were made in a reflective and reassuring tone, as the President joined Muslim faithful in marking the Eid celebrations, using the moment to both celebrate and address national concerns.
