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Amara Kanneh, a contender for the National Chairman position of the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), allegedly sold his personal house to finance his campaign, according to claims made by the First Lady of Sierra Leone, Mrs. Fatima Maada Bio.
Mrs. Bio disclosed the allegation while speaking on matters relating to the ongoing SLPP chairmanship contest. She said Mr. Kanneh personally approached her to inform her of his intention to contest for the party’s national chairmanship and that she expressed support for his ambition at the time.
According to the First Lady, individuals who are now publicly supporting Batilo Songa, Mr. Kanneh’s main rival in the race, were among those who encouraged Mr. Kanneh to sell his property in order to raise funds for his campaign.
The allegation comes as internal political competition intensifies within the ruling SLPP ahead of its leadership elections, with campaign financing and internal alliances becoming central points of public discussion.
In addressing criticism over her involvement in party affairs, Mrs. Bio emphasized that she is the Grand Chief Patron of the SLPP and a fully paid-up member of the party. She stated that she has paid her membership subscriptions in advance up to 2030.
She also raised concerns about what she described as continued public attacks against her, despite her claimed financial and personal contributions to the party’s growth and stability.
Mrs. Bio further recounted an incident in Parliament which she said was embarrassing and humiliating, involving the chanting of a “coco roast” song directed at her. She said the leadership of Parliament has not apologized for the incident and described the matter as unresolved.
Responding to public perceptions regarding the use of state resources, the First Lady denied receiving personal financial benefits from the government.
“I have never received a dime from government, not even a vehicle or medical bills for myself and my children,” she said.
She explained that her office employs 18 civilian staff members whose salaries are paid by the government, adding that this support is limited to facilitating her official duties.
