Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. Residents of Kenema have hailed the recently concluded Presidential Townhall held on June 16th and 17th, 2025, as a landmark event in participatory democracy in Sierra Leone.
The gathering marked a crucial moment in the country’s history, as it featured a face-to-face interaction between nearly the entire cabinet and the electorate, allowing for direct responses to citizens’ questions.
Despite His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio’s absence due to unforeseen circumstances, Chief Minister David Moinina Sengeh represented him effectively. Alongside a host of cabinet ministers, Sengeh addressed a wide range of issues raised by the public, demonstrating a commitment to transparency and accountability.
The townhall began with the Chief Minister responding to questions submitted online through platforms established by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education. The topics covered included Feed Salone, inclusivity, free quality education, child rights, the Safe Motherhood Bill, the Tripartite Recommendations, Redistricting, and MPOX, among others.
Following the initial responses, the program transitioned into a panel discussion, where all cabinet ministers engaged directly with the audience. The level of interaction was unprecedented, highlighting the government’s dedication to open dialogue with its citizens.
Residents expressed their appreciation for the Ministry of Information and Civic Education’s efforts in facilitating this democratic engagement. They urged the government to maintain regular communication about the country’s operations, enabling citizens to make informed decisions about their governance.
The Presidential Townhall was preceded by quiz and debate competitions for secondary schools on June 16th, commemorating the Day of the African Child. This initiative further emphasized the government’s focus on youth engagement and education.
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