Julius Maada Bio on Saturday officially turned the sod for the construction of the Eastern Regional Headquarters of the Sierra Leone People’s Party in Kenema City, describing the initiative as a project dedicated to the party’s grassroots supporters across the Eastern Region.
The event drew large numbers of party supporters, officials, and residents, many of whom made financial pledges and donations toward the development of the proposed headquarters, reflecting broad participation in the initiative.
During the ceremony, President Bio formally received the architectural designs and construction plans from the project’s technical team. He commended the party’s national leadership for what he described as their commitment to strengthening the SLPP and positioning it for long-term growth and relevance in Sierra Leone’s political landscape.
In his address, the President highlighted the historical role of the SLPP in the country’s development since its establishment, while encouraging members to maintain unity and remain committed to public service and national progress.
President Bio said the construction of the regional headquarters represented more than the erection of a physical structure, noting that it symbolized the party’s intention to deepen engagement with communities and maintain closer ties with supporters at the grassroots level.
He stressed that political leadership should extend beyond party administration and translate into tangible development outcomes for citizens, including improved infrastructure and social services.
“This project is not only about constructing a building,” the President stated. “It is about serving the people and ensuring that leadership continues to deliver development in areas such as water supply, electricity, roads, and opportunities for citizens across the country.”
As part of the ceremony, President Bio also distributed pledge and donation cards to supporters and party members, encouraging wider participation and collective ownership of the project.
Speaking at the event, Jimmy Batilo Songa described President Bio as a leader whose administration had fulfilled many commitments made to residents of the Eastern Region.
He said the planned headquarters would serve as an important center for party administration, coordination, mobilisation, and engagement for future generations.
According to Songa, the facility is expected to strengthen the party’s operational presence in the region and contribute to the SLPP’s long-term organisational structure nationwide.
The Eastern Regional Headquarters, which is expected to be completed next year, will host party meetings, administrative activities, and community engagement programmes. Once completed, it is projected to become one of the most prominent regional political party offices in Sierra Leone.