His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio on Thursday 3rd August, 2023 delivered his State Opening address to Parliament where he outlined efforts at rebuilding on democracy, proposed reviews to electoral systems and called on the nation to promote cohesion in politics.

According to President Bio, “This Sixth Parliament presents an opportunity to showcase the maturity of our democracy. Any political party’s absence of a two-thirds majority necessitates constant engagement, encouraging us to amplify all voices and engenders a more harmonious, stable, and prosperous Sierra Leone. By fostering collaboration, cooperation, and negotiation, we can transcend political divides for the ultimate benefit of our people.”

The President stated that in the august body where no party has attained a two-thirds majority, the need for dialogue and negotiation resonates with utmost urgency, adding that we must find common ground within the political divides, and that through unity, we can achieve stability, progress, and prosperity in our democracy.

President Bio said we should not forget that the true holders of power in a democracy are the people the lawmakers represent and that they must always remember their voices, aspirations, and hopes for a better future in every debate and conflict.

The President called on other national leaders to put the nation’s interest first, transcending party lines, and forging alliances beyond political affiliations, noting that it is the duty of MPs to embody the spirit of statesmanship and seek dialogue and common goals, even in the face of differing opinions.

“Let us never take the peace and stability we currently enjoy for granted. Look around us, both on our continent and worldwide, and we witness the devastating consequences that unfold when political actors fail to resolve their differences with maturity and respect for the law,” President Bio cautioned politicians.