By Mahamood Fofana
Former President says he will not seek presidency or lead APC, but pledges to help “steady the ship”
Former President Dr Ernest Bai Koroma has returned to his hometown of Makeni with a message of peace, forgiveness and national unity, declaring that his return to Sierra Leone is focused on fostering stability rather than reclaiming political power.
Dr Koroma arrived in Makeni on 14 September 2026 after spending more than two years in Nigeria. His return was met with a major public reception, as hundreds of supporters and well-wishers took to the streets to welcome the former Head of State.
But beyond the celebrations, Koroma used the occasion to outline what he described as a new chapter in his public life—one centred on peace, reconciliation and national cohesion.
“I am back to foster peace,” Dr Koroma declared.
He said his immediate attention would be directed towards his foundation and initiatives aimed at strengthening peace, stability and unity in Sierra Leone.
Koroma also made it clear that he does not intend to return to State House or seek leadership of his All People’s Congress (APC).
“I will never be a President anymore, nor a party leader of my APC party, for I know it is not stable, but I will help to steady the ship,” he said.
His statement places his return in a different political context, with the former President presenting himself as an elder statesman rather than an active presidential contender.
Reflecting on his experience in office, Koroma acknowledged the responsibility that comes with having served as Sierra Leone’s Head of State.
“I know the responsibility I carry as head of state, and maybe in a year or two the current President Maada Bio will join me as former head of state,” he remarked.
He said his role as a former president should extend beyond partisan politics, stressing that he would be willing to offer counsel where his experience could be useful.
Koroma said he was prepared to provide guidance to members of the APC, the ruling Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), civil society organisations and young entrepreneurs.
“I have to be a father to everybody. If anyone thinks my advice and intervention is useful, so be it,” he affirmed.
The former President also called for an end to hatred and negative sentiments, urging Sierra Leoneans to place peace, forgiveness and national cohesion above political differences.
In a personal reflection, Koroma said he had forgiven those who had hurt him, reinforcing his broader message of reconciliation.
His return to Makeni therefore carries a message that extends beyond his own political journey. By ruling out a return to the presidency or party leadership while offering his experience and counsel, Koroma appears to be defining his next chapter around the role of an elder statesman.
As Makeni welcomed him home, the former President left supporters and the wider public with a message centred on peace, forgiveness, unity and national cohesion.
