“They Wanted to Hurt Me”: Chief Minister Sengeh Responds to Homophobic Attacks

Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh has delivered a powerful and deeply personal statement on social media, responding boldly to a series of homophobic attacks and false rumors targeting his character, leadership, and personal life.

The Chief Minister known globally as an award-winning scientist, innovator, and advocate for education and inclusion used the moment to highlight the toxic nature of hate-driven politics and to reaffirm his commitment to progressive, inclusive leadership in Sierra Leone.

“First they called me gay. Then they called me Kadiatu. In all, they wanted to hurt me. It was an attack on my personhood,”
Dr. Sengeh wrote. “When opponents make homophobic attacks like this, share PowerPoint photos of me and my friends in college living simple lives as evidence that I am bisexual; when opposition leaders say I argue like a woman or I laugh like a woman, they don’t hurt me. They hurt themselves.” Dr. Sengeh noted that such attacks reflect a lack of meaningful criticism from his detractors, arguing that those who resort to hate speech reveal their own moral and intellectual shortcomings.

“They show that there’s nothing worthy to criticize. They tell us they are not worthy leaders. So, they make up hateful stories and pinch the hearts on morality. They expose themselves,”
he added. Introducing himself proudly, Dr. Sengeh reminded Sierra Leoneans of his achievements and identity beyond the noise of politics: “Hi, my name is David Moinina Sengeh. I’m a leader, an activist, a problem solver, a designer, a rapper, a scientist, author, inventor, and winner of the World’s Best Minister Award. I am happily married with two kids. No, I’m not gay though it’s none of your business.”

Dr. Sengeh emphasized that his leadership is rooted in radical inclusion, empathy, and innovation values that transcend hate and division. He reaffirmed his vision for a Sierra Leone where diversity is celebrated and young people are empowered to think boldly and act ethically.

“I represent a new form of leadership. I am not perfect I have lots to learn but I am ready, prepared, capable, and more. I am the founder of the Radical Inclusion Movement, and together, we will build a better future,”
he concluded. The Chief Minister’s post has since sparked widespread conversation online, with many Sierra Leoneans commending his honesty, courage, and resilience in confronting bigotry with grace and intellect.

His message stands as a clear reminder that leadership is not about tearing others down, but about rising above hate to uphold dignity, truth, and the collective good.