Sierra Leonean President Julius Maada Bio announced on Monday, October 26, 2026, in Freetown that he would not run in the 2028 presidential election, while offering apologies on behalf of the State to the victims of the civil war and calling for a revival of the reparations program.
Julius Maada Bio stated that he would complete his constitutional term in 2028 and peacefully hand over power to the person chosen by the voters. Elected in 2018 and then re-elected in 2023, he is currently serving his second term as head of the country.
The president acknowledged that the State had not ensured the protection of many citizens during the conflict. He called on the National Commission for Social Action and the relevant institutions to review and strengthen the measures recommended by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
The authorities must publish a report on the implementation of the recommendations of this commission no later than January 18, 2027. This deadline will coincide with the twenty-fifth anniversary of the official end of the Sierra Leonean civil war.
The Ministry of Health must also work with the Peace Commission and religious communities to expand mental health services and psychosocial support for individuals still affected by the conflict.
The presidential speech also provides for a national framework for action on peace and cohesion within a period of ninety days. Julius Maada Bio also proposed a code of conduct for peaceful elections, a national week of peace, and the preparation of a memorial dedicated to the victims.
The civil war, which lasted from 1991 to 2002, left many wounded, victims of sexual violence, former child soldiers, and bereaved families. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission had recommended health, education, training, and financial support measures for the most vulnerable individuals.
Former President Ernest Bai Koroma, present at the national conference on unity and social cohesion held on October 26 and 27, called on political leaders to prioritize dialogue and expressed his willingness to contribute to reconciliation initiatives.
