By Sulaiman Jalloh
President Julius Maada Bio on Wednesday, May 22nd, 2024, presided over the coronation of 12 newly-elected paramount chiefs at the Southern Arena in Bo district, southern Sierra Leone.
During the ceremony, President Bio underscored his deep respect for the institution of Paramount Chiefs, highlighting his personal connection to the tradition. “I have great respect for the institution of Paramount Chiefs, having come from a Paramount Chief home myself. Our chiefs are the custodians of our traditions and cultures, playing an essential role in our social fabric,” he stated. This acknowledgment emphasized the cultural and social importance of the chiefs in Sierra Leone.
President Bio reaffirmed his government’s ongoing support for the institution of Paramount Chiefs. “My government has been steadfast in supporting our Paramount Chiefs and will continue to do so,” he emphasized, saying the played a vital role in maintaining peace and stability at local level while assuring them of continued backing from the state.
The head of state encouraged the newly installed leaders to serve their communities diligently and uphold the values of their positions. “I urge the new Paramount Chiefs to serve their people well, ensuring peace and stability within their chiefdoms,” President Bio remarked. His words were a call to action for the chiefs to embrace their responsibilities with dedication and integrity.
The ceremony was marked by the presentation of medals and staffs of office, symbolizing the formal investiture of the chiefs into their traditional leadership roles. This event heralded a new era of leadership for the 12 chiefdoms, as the newly crowned Paramount Chiefs embarked on their journey to lead and serve their communities. The coronation was a momentous occasion for the people of Bo City and the entire nation of Sierra Leone, celebrating the enduring significance of traditional leadership.
The President was accompanied by First Lady Fatima Maada Bio and government ministers. The event marked a significant moment in the country’s traditional leadership landscape as the new paramount chiefs were formally installed in their roles.
Copyright –Published in print in Expo Times Newspaper on Friday, May 24th , 2024 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
