Makeni, 29th June, 2026 – President Julius Maada Bio will face citizens directly in Makeni at the 2026 Presidential Town Hall, a civic forum designed to spotlight government priorities under the banner “Year of Action.”

The event, organized by the Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MoICE), is expected to draw nationwide attention as the President fields questions on the economy, gender empowerment, Sierra Leone’s “Big Five” development agenda, and the country’s growing role in ECOWAS and global leadership. Citizens have been invited to submit questions via SMS to 818 or through the official online platform.

The choice of Makeni a city not traditionally considered a government stronghold has raised eyebrows. Information Minister Chernor Bah said the venue was deliberately selected by the President to underscore that “accountability extends to every Sierra Leonean, not only those who supported him at the polls.”

The Town Hall comes at a critical juncture, with Sierra Leone grappling with economic reforms, efforts to empower women and girls, and the challenge of translating flagship programmes into tangible results. The government has branded its priorities as the Big Five Game Changers, ranging from food security to human capital development.

The Town Hall will be broadcast live on AYV Television, SLBC TV and Radio, Star TV, community radio stations, and social media platforms, ensuring nationwide access.

The Makeni forum will test the administration’s commitment to open dialogue and participatory governance, while offering citizens a rare opportunity to question the Head of State directly on issues affecting their communities.