Sierra Leone’s Deputy Permanent Representatives to the United Nations, Kalilu Totangi and Michaela B. E. Swallow, officially bid farewell to President Julius Maada Bio at the State House in Freetown on Monday, 17 March 2025, as they prepared to begin their new roles in New York.
During their meeting, both representatives promised to work hard to represent Sierra Leone’s interests on the global stage.
Kalilu Totangi, who serves as the Deputy Permanent Representative for Political Affairs, thanked President Bio for the appointment, expressing his commitment to serving the nation’s best interests.
Michaela B. E. Swallow, the Deputy Permanent Representative for Legal Affairs, also expressed her gratitude, calling it a great honor to take on the role. She acknowledged the progress President Bio has made in strengthening democracy, peace, and development in Sierra Leone, adding that his leadership shows how much progress can be achieved.
Swallow shared her 17 years of experience in the legal field, including her time as President of the Sierra Leone Bar Association and involvement in various regional and international legal bodies. She noted that this foundation has equipped her with the necessary skills to tackle the complex legal challenges ahead in New York, where she will focus on sustainable development, human rights, empowerment of women and girls, global peace, and the reform of the UN Security Council.
Timothy Musa Kabba, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, also spoke during the meeting, updating the President that both representatives had received parliamentary approval and completed necessary protocol training. He explained that this visit marked their formal farewell before they head off to their new assignments.
President Bio congratulated both Totangi and Swallow, expressing his confidence that they would rise to the occasion. He assured them of his support and guidance as they carry out their responsibilities. President Bio also said that their contributions would be integral to Sierra Leone’s efforts at the Security Council.
Before their appointments, Kalilu Totangi served as Chairman of the National Council for Civic Education and Development, while Swallow held several key positions, including President of the Sierra Leone Bar Association and Senior Legal Counsel at the Petroleum Directorate.