Anti-Corruption Chief Francis Kaifala Eyes Sierra Leone Presidency

Anti-Corruption Chief Francis Kaifala Eyes Sierra Leone Presidency

Francis Ben Kaifala, the Commissioner of Sierra Leone's Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), has publicly indicated his interest in the nation's highest office, stating that he views himself as a viable candidate for the presidency should the country seek new leadership.

Speaking on Radio Democracy 98.1 FM, Commissioner Kaifala emphasized his identity as a Sierra Leonean hailing from Pendembu in the Kailahun District, arguing that his regional background should not preclude his aspirations for the country's top position. "I am a Sierra Leonean, my name is Francis Ben Kaifala from Pendembu, Kailahun District. I deserve to aspire for any position in this country," he affirmed.

Kaifala posited that if President Julius Maada Bio and the people of Sierra Leone are genuinely searching for young leaders to drive national development and intensify the anti-corruption campaign, he should be given serious consideration. He leveraged his record at the ACC, highlighting what he described as measurable success in reducing corruption under his tenure.

"Consider the potential impact of this fight against corruption, which we have initiated, were I to be President of Sierra Leone," Kaifala remarked.

He further elaborated that his core vision for the country is rooted in instilling discipline across all levels of governance and society. "What I will introduce is discipline—disciplined thinking, disciplined actions, and disciplined leadership. I will transform the narrative of Sierra Leone," he stated.

The ACC Commissioner asserted that his track record and national visibility position him as a credible contender for future leadership, particularly as a representative of youth and a proponent of regional inclusivity. He stressed that the Kailahun District should be an active participant in national leadership discussions.

"If the President is seeking young individuals to lead the fight against corruption, you cannot exclude one of the most distinguished sons of Kailahun District," he argued.

While Kaifala refrained from a formal political declaration, he maintained that if Sierra Leone is actively searching for a leader to guide the nation onto a new trajectory, he believes he warrants consideration. "If the country is looking for someone to become president and change the story of Sierra Leone, I, Francis Ben Kaifala, believe I should be one," he concluded.

His statements have initiated a wider debate concerning his potential future role within the Sierra Leone People's Party (SLPP) and the evolving political leadership landscape.