For far too long, women have been marginalized in national politics, particularly when it comes to seeking the highest office in the land—the presidency. In Sierra Leone, a country with a rich history and a diverse population, the candidacy of Fatima Bio would represent a significant step toward achieving gender equality in politics. As a prominent figure and advocate for women’s rights, her bid for the presidency holds the promise of breaking barriers and reshaping the political landscape of Sierra Leone.

Fatima Bio, a seasoned activist and philanthropist, has long been a champion for women’s empowerment in Sierra Leone. Her work in advocating for gender equality, education, and healthcare has earned her respect and admiration both locally and internationally. Notably, she played a crucial role in championing the ban on the marriage of under-aged girls, ensuring that girls have the opportunity to receive quality education and pursue respectable career paths, just like their male counterparts.

Her “Hands Off Our Girls” initiative has been instrumental in preventing rape, harassment, and gender-based violence against women and children, creating safer environments for them to thrive. Furthermore, Fatima Bio has contributed significantly to the distribution of free sanitary pads to school children across the country, ensuring that menstruation does not hinder their education. Her generosity, kindness, compassion, and respect for all ages and classes have made her a beloved figure among Sierra Leoneans.

Fatima Bio has also been a driving force behind several major construction projects as part of her philanthropic efforts. She championed the construction of facilities at the 34 Military Hospital in Freetown, enhancing healthcare services for the community. Additionally, she spearheaded the construction of the American University, aimed at training medical personnel and improving the healthcare sector in Sierra Leone.

As a potential presidential candidate, Fatima Bio has outlined a comprehensive platform that addresses the pressing issues facing women in Sierra Leone. From access to quality education to healthcare reform and economic empowerment, she has the potential to develop policies that would foster a more equitable society where women can thrive and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s development. Her vision for a gender-equal Sierra Leone resonates with many who have long awaited a leader who understands the challenges faced by women in the country.

Moreover, Fatima Bio’s candidacy will inspire a new generation of women to engage in politics and strive for leadership roles. By breaking the traditional gender barriers in Sierra Leonean politics, Bio will pave the way for other women to follow suit and participate actively in shaping the future of the nation. Her courage and determination serve as a beacon of hope for those who believe in a more inclusive and representative government.

Men with understanding and respect for womanhood must support her candidature and push her to become the next president of the Republic of Sierra Leone. Her election as our next president is a step in the right direction for the brighter future of our daughters, including those yet unborn.

The Sierra Leone Peoples Party (SLPP) as a political party should see a reason to award her the party ticket to be their standard bearer for the 2028 elections because it’s obvious that amongst all intending aspirants, she is the most popular of them all. She’s the only one who has the potential to earn them victory on the first ballots.

Women, irrespective of their political, tribal, religious, ethnic, and regional affiliations, must rally behind Fatima Bio as she represents their opportunity to play active roles in politics and vie for the highest office in the land. At this time, she is the most popular woman in the country, with the fame, recognition, and support necessary to make a significant impact. Her victory would be a victory for all women, while her failure could mean that a woman might not rule Sierra Leone anytime soon.

Fatima Bio as an honorable Muslim woman must see the reasons why she should run for the presidency, particularly at this critical juncture when the country needs massive transformation in its political landscape. Her run for president is not only for herself but for all Sierra Leonean women. She must not relent. This is the time for her. This is the time for women in politics.