Madam Fatima Maada Bio, the First Lady of Sierra Leone, has done what has been widely described as an endorsement of the presidential aspiration of the Mayor of Freetown, Madam Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr of the main opposition All People’s Congress (APC) party.

Mayor Aki-Sawyerr, in her 2026 New Year message to residents of Freetown, declared officially her interest to run for the presidency under the ticket of the main opposition All Peoples Congress (APC) party. The APC is expected to elect its presidential candidate at the party’s primaries expected to happen in August 2025. The candidate will represent the APC in Sierra Leone presidential election in 2028.

“I want to remind you all that I am aspiring to become the flagbearer of the APC party and contest in the country’s presidential election in 2028. I truly believe that we should convert our hope into reality,” Madam Aki-Sawyer declared.

Reacting to Mayor Aki-Sawyer’s declaration on Facebook, First Lady Fatima Bio congratulated Madam Aki-Sawyerr, saying her “decision to declare for the flagbearer/presidency is a courageous and inspiring step.”

“It reflects your belief in inclusive leadership. You are opening doors for women and girls everywhere, and I wish you strength, wisdom and success on this historic journey,” the First Lady added.

The First Lady is a member of the ruling Sierra Leone Peoples Party while Mayor Aki-Sawyerr is a member of the main opposition APC party. This has also been described by many as a symbolic display of political tolerance and women solidarity.