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Trevor Young, an environmental and hygiene activist, has said that while Sierra Leone deserves a female president, First Lady Fatima Maada Bio should not occupy that position.
In a Facebook post, Young stated that his position is based on concerns about democratic norms and freedom of expression in the country. He said reactions to his previous posts on the ECOWAS Court ruling on Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) included private warnings from some citizens advising him to remain silent, which he interpreted as a sign of fear in public discourse.
Young argued that a healthy democracy depends on open expression, adding that when citizens feel unable to speak freely, it raises concerns about the state of democratic space.
The activist also referenced recent public attention surrounding the First Lady’s celebration of the Bondo society, which has reignited debate on traditional practices and FGM in Sierra Leone.
He linked the issue to broader human rights discussions in the sub-region, particularly ongoing legal and policy debates around FGM.
Young stated that although he supports the idea of a female president for Sierra Leone, such leadership must promote unity, human rights, and respect for democratic values. He added that he would accept the outcome of a free and fair election.
He further said he will continue to express his views peacefully ahead of the next electoral cycle.
