Sengeh Puts Government Delivery Ahead of 2028 Presidential Ambitions

Sierra Leone’s Chief Minister, Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, has said his immediate focus is on serving President Julius Maada Bio and helping the SLPP-led government deliver on its commitments to the people, rather than pursuing a bid for the 2028 presidency.

Sengeh made the statement while speaking on AYV’s State of the Nation programme on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, amid growing public discussions about potential contenders for the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) flagbearership ahead of the 2028 presidential election.

Addressing speculation surrounding his political ambitions, Sengeh said he does not currently plan to run for president, stressing that his priority remains supporting President Bio and contributing to the government’s efforts to improve the lives of Sierra Leoneans.

“My focus is not on running for President,” Sengeh said, explaining that his motivation is centred on finding ways to serve President Bio and help the government deliver for citizens.

He said his focus every day is on identifying ways to contribute through his current responsibilities and make a positive difference in the lives of Sierra Leoneans and their families.

“What keeps me going every day is how I can serve President Bio, how we can deliver for the people of this country, and how we can make life better for you and your loved ones in any way whatsoever,” he said.

The Chief Minister further emphasised that his primary concern at this stage is President Bio, the performance of the SLPP and the delivery of government programmes, rather than pursuing personal political ambitions.

“My primary focus at this minute is President Bio, to make sure the SLPP continues to do well and the government delivers for the people,” he stated.

Sengeh also called for unity within the governing party and among citizens, stressing that collective action and the principle of radical inclusion are essential to achieving the government’s objectives.

“If we work together, if we believe in radical inclusion, and if we put our hands together, we will deliver for President Bio,” he said.

Describing his relationship with President Bio, Sengeh referred to him as his mentor, leader, friend and father figure, highlighting the personal and professional relationship between the two.

“Personally, President Bio is my mentor, he’s my leader, he’s my friend and he’s my father figure,” he said.

Sengeh’s comments come as discussions continue over the SLPP’s succession process ahead of the 2028 presidential election. His name has featured in public conversations about the party’s future leadership, although his latest remarks indicate that his stated priority remains his current responsibilities in government.

As Chief Minister, Sengeh’s role includes supporting the coordination of government policies and programmes and monitoring their implementation under the authority of the President.

For now, Sengeh has made clear that his immediate priority is to support President Bio, strengthen the performance of the SLPP-led government and help ensure that its programmes and commitments are delivered for the people of Sierra Leone.