Freetown City Council has appointed Councillor Zainab Conteh as Acting Mayor, following a unanimous vote by her fellow councillors.

The decision allows her to oversee council meetings and approve crucial requests to ensure the smooth running of the municipality in the absence of Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr and Deputy Mayor Kweku Lisk, who are both currently out of the country.

The appointment of Councillor Conteh was made in line with Standing Orders 45 (SO 45) of the council, which allows for the election of a presiding officer to temporarily take charge of council operations.

Before this new role, Councillor Conteh served as Chair of the Council Appointment Advisory, Foreign, and Protocol Committee. She is also a member of the Sanitation and Municipal Trade Committees, where she has earned respect for her dedication and work ethic.

As Acting Mayor, Councillor Conteh has the responsibility of facilitating council activities and overseeing key decisions during this interim period. Her leadership comes at a critical time, as the council continues to navigate pressing matters related to city administration.

Colleagues have praised her as a hardworking and resourceful leader, highlighting her capability to manage the city’s affairs in the absence of the top two officials. Many believe that her previous roles have prepared her well for this temporary but significant position.

The appointment reflects a vote of confidence in Councillor Conteh’s leadership, underscoring the council’s trust in her ability to guide Freetown through its ongoing administrative and operational needs.