“The Next President of Sierra Leone Will be Less Than 45 Years Old” – Chief Minister Sengeh

David Moinina Sengeh has declared that Sierra Leone’s next president will be younger than 45 years old, urging young people across the country to prepare themselves for leadership and national service.

In a public statement, the Chief Minister said the future leadership of Sierra Leone should reflect the growing role of young people in governance, business, industry and the creative sector. He linked his comments to what he described as a broader call by African leaders for youth participation in leadership.

“The Next President of Sierra Leone will be less than 45 years old and will work for the youth as Julius Maada Bio has started,” Sengeh stated.

According to the Chief Minister, the discussion is not centered on any individual politician or political party, but rather on the future direction of the country and the need to create opportunities for younger generations to take leadership responsibilities.

“This isn’t about a specific individual or a specific political party. This is about the future of our country,” he said.

Sengeh also referenced neighboring Botswana, saying leaders across Africa are encouraging young people to take active roles in shaping national development.

He said leadership opportunities should extend beyond politics into sectors such as business, industry and the creative economy.

The Chief Minister further praised President Julius Maada Bio for what he described as achievements in education and healthcare, arguing that the president’s policies demonstrate a commitment to long-term national development and youth empowerment.

He claimed that the government has reduced maternal mortality by 80 percent, reduced child mortality by 30 percent, increased senior secondary school enrollment by 50 percent, and maintained higher education enrollment targets above 170 percent.

“That’s legacy building,” Sengeh stated while emphasizing what he called the importance of investing in future generations.

The Chief Minister also used the statement to challenge institutions and leaders across the country to create more space for young people to lead and contribute to national progress.

“As Chief Minister, I join other leaders to challenge you, to give young people more opportunities to lead. It’s simple. We are asking you all to step up so we can fix our country,” he said.