By Foday Moriba Conteh
In an exclusive interview with this medium, Jennifer Lahai Thompson, a Political Observer, spotlighted President Julius Maada Bio’s evolving role as Chairman of ECOWAS and the delicate balance he must maintain between regional stability, national sovereignty and unity within West Africa. Jennifer Thompson’s remarks reflect growing public and party interest in positioning her as a future national appointee, citing her proven service record within the SLPP and beyond.
She praised President Bio’s series of diplomatic visits to fellow ECOWAS member states since assuming the chairmanship, describing them as a signal of inclusive governance amid a turbulent regional period. “This is not about confrontation; it’s about conversation,” she said, arguing that ECOWAS must strike a balance where each nation is both heard and respected. She warned that political transitions, withdrawals from the bloc and ongoing debates over sovereignty challenge ECOWAS’s legitimacy but also create opportunities for reform and re-engagement.
Her confidence in President Bio’s capacity to steer this epochal moment is rooted in his leadership style. With Sierra Leone’s history of conflict resolution through dialogue and reconciliation, Jennifer Thompson suggested Bio is uniquely positioned to mediate tensions and restore unity. “We’re encouraged by his diplomatic engagements; they demonstrate a commitment to regional dialogue,” she said, adding that he has the credibility and moral authority to re-engage states that have drifted away.
In Sierra Leone, where the border dispute over Yenga remains a political flashpoint, Jennifer Thompson urged compatriots to take a broader perspective: “Instead of condemning him over Yenga, we should laud his regional leadership. The bigger picture matters.” Her statement underscores growing sentiment that national issues shouldn’t overshadow opportunities to strengthen Sierra Leone’s stature in the region.
Of equal import is the undercurrent of calls urging President Bio to consider Jennifer Thompson for a future appointment. Among SLPP loyalists and ordinary citizens alike, her consistent advocacy especially on children’s welfare and public communication of the “Big Five” agenda has elevated her profile. With both diplomatic and domestic service credentials, many argue she now embodies the leadership qualities sought for a more influential role in Government.
As ECOWAS grapples with renewed questions of legitimacy, membership and identity, Jennifer Thompson framed Bio’s chairmanship as pivotal. The path ahead will demand wisdom, restraint and inclusivity traits she believes he possesses. And domestically, her own political ascent appears to be strengthening in tandem with Sierra Leone’s regional ambitions.
The Calabash Newspaper is Sierra Leone’s leading English‑language news platform—established in 2017 to deliver trusted coverage of politics, culture, health, and more to audiences both at home and abroad.
