By Ilyasa Baa
As President Julius Maada Bio prepares for another lecture at the University of Pennsylvania, the United Voices for Sierra Leone, a collective of passionate Sierra Leonean diaspora nationals advocating for human rights and democracy, has called for his withdrawal as the speaker for the upcoming 3rd Annual Distinguished Lecture in African Studies scheduled for March 25th, 2024, in the United States.
Expressing disappointment, the group cites stark inconsistencies between the chosen topic, “Navigating Future: Democracy, Progressive Politics, and Inclusive Development in Africa,” and President Bio’s track record. They refer to him as an autocratic leader who, according to their letter, has held onto power since a rigged election, terming his current tenure an “illegitimate second term” after an alleged electoral coup d’état in June 2023.
The letter challenges the published biography, pointing out omissions regarding Bio’s coup history. Quoting Mrs. Fatima Jabbie Bio, his wife, the group highlights Bio’s reputation as a “serial coup d’état maker.” They emphasize the oppressive environment in Sierra Leone, accusing Bio’s leadership of stifling free speech and violating fundamental human rights.
Dr. Fatima Babih, signing on behalf of United Voices for Sierra Leone, contends that Bio’s leadership has regrettably contributed to narrowing the democratic space, contradicting the ideals the University of Pennsylvania claims to uphold. The call for withdrawal is grounded in well-documented human rights violations under Bio’s watch.
The group urges Professor Camille Z. Charles, Department Chair of the Centre for Africana Studies in Philadelphia, USA, to address the matter urgently. They emphasize the need for the university to choose an alternate speaker aligned with shared goals, sending a powerful statement supporting democracy in Africa.
This controversy follows the group’s prior notification to Harvard University regarding the First Lady’s fitness to deliver lectures, citing weaknesses in the government’s administration.
