President Bio Explains Decision to Step Away from Energy Sector

President Julius Maada Bio has explained why he stepped away from direct oversight of the energy sector, saying the workload became too demanding to manage alongside his broader national responsibilities.

He made the remarks during the Presidential Town Hall 2026 in Makeni, where he addressed national energy challenges and reflected on his earlier involvement in supervising the sector.

In April 2024, following the resignation of the Energy Minister during a national electricity crisis, the Energy Ministry was placed under the direct supervision of the President.

President Bio said the energy sector is highly complex, involving technical, operational, and financial challenges that require sustained attention and expert coordination.

“I have been Minister for electricity, but what I saw there made me leave that ministry,” he said, adding that Dr. Kandeh Yumkella provided support and guidance during that period.

He noted that the electricity sector is not only technical but also structurally challenging, requiring long-term planning and coordinated solutions rather than short-term administrative control.

The President further emphasised that energy remains one of the most important drivers of economic growth, stressing that no meaningful development can take place without reliable and affordable electricity.

He questioned how economic progress can be sustained if energy systems are not properly financed, maintained, and supported by effective payment structures.

President Bio said his decision to step away from direct oversight of the sector was influenced by the need to focus on broader national leadership responsibilities while strengthening institutional management.

He added that lessons from his experience continue to shape government thinking on energy reform, infrastructure development, and long-term economic planning.