By Alpha Sesay
In a moving and well-attended ceremony, the 50 Most Influential Sierra Leonean Women Awards Committee, headed by the Kids Advocacy Network, on Wednesday, 30th July 2025, presented a Lifetime Achievement Award to Hon. Chernor Ramadan Maju Bah (popularly known as Chericoco), in recognition of his outstanding contributions to peace, democracy, and his tireless advocacy for women and children in Sierra Leone.
The symbolic event, held in Freetown, celebrated Hon. Chericoco’s 15-year-long career in Parliament, during which he has consistently championed inclusive governance, gender equity, and the protection of vulnerable groups. His service as Deputy Speaker of Parliament and later as Leader of the Opposition has been defined by unflinching dedication, national unity, and a commitment to democratic ideals.
Chairman, Edmond Alim B. Fornah, speaking on behalf of the organising committee, described Hon. Chericoco as “a selfless leader whose influence continues to echo through generations.” He noted that the award not only recognised Hon. Chericoco’s defense of democratic principles, but also his courage to speak and act on behalf of women and children, even in the face of political resistance.
Alimatu Jalloh, Deputy Executive Director of the Kids Advocacy Network, praised Hon. Chericoco’s long-standing advocacy for women’s empowerment and child protection. She highlighted his bold interventions in Parliament, particularly his efforts to reverse discriminatory policies against pregnant schoolgirls, ensuring young mothers had the right to continue their education. “He did not just speak for us; he fought for us,” she said. “His journey reflects a steadfast dedication to justice, inclusion, and empowerment. He has inspired a new generation to build a fairer and more inclusive society,” she added.
Throughout his parliamentary career, Hon. Chericoco has been a champion of peace and democracy. As Deputy Speaker and Opposition Leader, he worked to build bridges across political divides, promoted peaceful political dialogue, and led efforts to protect democratic institutions and the rule of law. His calm demeanor, principled stands, and ability to unify opposing views earned him widespread respect across party lines.
Beyond politics, his grassroots engagement with civil society, youth movements, and women’s organizations demonstrated his belief that true leadership is rooted in listening, service, and action. He consistently supported reforms that dismantled systemic barriers and paved the way for greater representation and economic participation of women and youths.
In his acceptance remarks, Hon. Chericoco expressed heartfelt gratitude to the organisers for recognising his contributions. He reaffirmed his uncompromising commitment to justice, equality, and progress for all Sierra Leoneans, especially women and children.
“Promoting peace and democratic values has always been at the heart of my public service. During my time in Parliament, I strived to ensure that every decision I made contributed to national unity and respect for the rule of law. I believe that democracy thrives when we listen to one another, uphold dialogue over division, and protect the rights of every citizen. This recognition reminds me that the fight for a peaceful, inclusive, and democratic Sierra Leone must never rest.” He maintained.
“This award also renews my resolve to continue standing for the voiceless and to build a nation where every child and woman is empowered to reach their full potential,” he said.
The Lifetime Achievement Award adds another chapter to Hon. Chericoco’s impactful legacy, a testament to a leader defined not by titles, but by the lives he has touched, empowered, and uplifted