By Kelfala Kargbo
Freetown, 19th February 2026- President Julius Maada Bio has issued a stern warning to Sierra Leone’s armed forces, insisting that unconstitutional change of government has “no place” in the country.
Speaking at the 17th Armed Forces Day commemoration held at the Julius Maada Bio Parade Ground, Wilberforce Barracks, the Commander-in-Chief reminded serving military personnel that their duty is to protect the people, not to rule them.
Addressing soldiers gathered in honour of fallen comrades and veterans, President Bio stressed that discipline, professionalism, and loyalty to democratic order must remain the guiding principles of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF). He noted that strategic transformation of the military is not only about equipment but also about values, discipline, and unwavering commitment to constitutional governance.
“Today’s RSLAF does not rule the people but protect them,” he declared, serving as keynote speaker and Special Guest of Honour.
Armed Forces Day, observed annually on February 18, pays tribute to soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the country’s brutal 11-year civil war and honours Sierra Leone’s historic victory in Mayoung during the Second World War. Against this backdrop of remembrance, President Bio’s remarks carried added weight, especially as military coups have surged across West Africa in recent years.
As current Chairman of ECOWAS, Bio reaffirmed his regional stance against military takeovers, warning that Sierra Leone must set an example of restraint and professionalism. “As ECOWAS Chair, I continue to work with my peers to reject the normalisation of military takeovers in the region,” he said. “However, leadership begins at home, as Sierra Leone should be an example of restraint, professionalism and constitutional fidelity.”
The President cautioned that the military must never seize power, but rather safeguard peace and strengthen democracy. He underscored that peace in Sierra Leone is a collective responsibility, shared by every citizen. “The era of military interference in governance is over,” Bio concluded, pledging to uphold peace both within Sierra Leone and across the region.
