His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio has expressed his commitment to engage in dialogue with the main opposition All People’s Congress (APC) on condition that his Government’s demands are met.
This was revealed last Sunday by the erstwhile Vice President of The Gambia, Aja Fatoumatta Jallow-Tambajang, who is the Lead Facilitator of the mediation dialogue supported by the Commonwealth, ECOWAS and the African Union (AU).

President Bio’s assurance to participate in the dialogue process signals a willingness to find common ground and see peaceful solutions to the country’s political challenges. However, this commitment is not unconditional, as President Bio has attached a key requirement.
The much-anticipated crucial dialogue between the Government of Sierra Leone (GoSL) and its opposition, All People’s Congress (APC) kicked off on Monday 16th October, 2023. The three-day dialogue is holding at the Bintumani Hotel in Freetown.
It is worth noting that the APC previously rejected the 24th June election results, citing significant irregularities and breaches of electoral procedures. As a result, they opted out of participating in governance at all levels, including the legislature and local councils.
Supporters of the APC are eagerly awaiting a potential rerun of the June 24 multitier elections.
On the other hand, supporters of the incumbent government are confident that there won’t be another elections, asserting that the results announced by the National Returning Officer of the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) will stand. They emphasized that the ECSL is an autonomous entity responsible for finalizing election outcomes.
Aja Fatoumatta Jallow-Tambajang, who is leading the mediation efforts, stressed the importance of prioritizing the nation’s welfare over individual or party interests.
In a meeting with journalists and civil society organizations, she emphasized that Sierra Leone’s unity and prosperity should take precedence over any other considerations.
“Sierra Leone is bigger than anyone,” Aja Jallow-Tambajang asserted, underscoring the significance of working together for the greater good of the country as the dialogue process unfolds.
The mediated dialogue between the Government of Sierra Leone (GoSL) and the APC is expected to be a pivotal moment in the nation’s political landscape, as stakeholders come together to address critical issues and work towards a more harmonious and stable future.
The conditions set by President Bio, while emphasizing the need for a balanced and fair agreement, reflect a commitment to the democratic process and conflict resolution. As the talks progress, the eyes of the nation and the international community remain focused on the outcomes of this significant dialogue.