Close Relative of Sierra Leone’s President Drives Nation’s Most Expensive Vehicle Amid Economic Hardships

A close relative of President Julius Maada Bio has recently acquired what is being dubbed the most expensive vehicle in Sierra Leone, raising eyebrows and sparking heated public debate about inequality in the country.

The luxury car, a 2025 Chevrolet Corvette C8 Stingray, is valued at $156,000, equivalent to 3.5 billion Leones (old currency). The sleek sports car was unveiled recently, attracting attention not only for its rarity but also for its staggering cost in a nation grappling with widespread poverty and economic hardship.

Despite the purchase’s visibility, little is known about the relative’s source of income or professional background, leaving many questioning how such an acquisition was possible. The lack of transparency has fuelled suspicions about wealth disparity and potential misuse of connections to power.

The development comes at a time when teachers, doctors, and civil servants are struggling to make ends meet, with many earning modest salaries far below the cost of living. Public frustration is mounting as essential workers continue to demand salary increases and improved working conditions while others appear to thrive in luxury.

A teacher in Freetown expressed dismay over the ostentatious display of wealth, stating, “We work tirelessly and still cannot afford basic necessities, yet some people live extravagantly without clear accountability. It’s disheartening.”

This incident has reignited conversations about income inequality, corruption, and accountability within the country’s leadership. Civil society groups and anti-corruption advocates have called for greater transparency regarding public officials and their relatives’ financial dealings.