By Foday Moriba Conteh
His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio’s recent appointment of four special envoys has stirred wide public debate, with citizens expressing mixed views on the move. While some critics have questioned the relevance and timing of the appointments, the Government of Sierra Leone, through the Presidential Spokesman, has defended the decision, describing it as a bold and strategic step to accelerate the country’s development agenda.
Speaking on the Liberty Online TV Breakfast Show on Wednesday, 27th August 2025, Presidential Spokesman Alhaji Alpha Khan explained that the appointments should be seen as recognition of “commitment, sacrifice, and proven service” to Sierra Leone.
“These are not jobs, rewards, or political paybacks,” Khan stressed. “They are voluntary, honorary positions that do not add to the government’s wage bill. Instead, they leverage personal resources, networks, and goodwill to attract investment, tourism, and infrastructure opportunities for Sierra Leone.”
Khan pointed in particular to the longstanding humanitarian and development support given by businessman Faissal D. Antar. According to him, Faissal’s contributions included the renovation of the 34 Military Hospital, the donation of an X-ray machine, school construction, mosque rehabilitation, and crucial financial support during the Ebola outbreak, when he pre-financed emergency supplies for the government despite delayed repayment.
“These are not people who sit and wait for recognition. They act out of genuine commitment to Sierra Leone,” Khan emphasised, noting that the Antar family has invested heavily in communities, health, and education, especially in Port Loko District.
Addressing criticisms that the appointments favoured individuals of Lebanese descent, Khan dismissed such claims as misplaced.
“Sierra Leone should not judge patriotism by surname or ethnicity. The Antars are Sierra Leoneans by their commitment, sacrifice, and integration into our society. Their contributions to health, education, and community development speak louder than ancestry,” he said.
Khan assured the public that the envoy roles carry no diplomatic privileges or financial rewards.
“This is not about personal gain or travel perks. It is about using their networks to open doors for Sierra Leone on the global stage,” he explained.
He further emphasized: “These appointments will not add to the wage bill. Instead, they will create opportunities for trade, tourism, and investment, which is exactly what Sierra Leone needs at this point in time.”
Myk Berewa, Director of Communication at State House, reinforced this message on his official Facebook page.
“Bringing the Antars on board as Special Envoys won’t add to our wage bill. Their role comes with only credentials, not paychecks. Our wage bill is inflated by the thousands of teachers and civil servants we employ every year,” Berewa wrote.
Adding his perspective, lecturer and media communications expert Sheku Putka Kamara commended the decision during the Newspaper Review Show on Epic Radio. He described the appointments as both timely and practical, especially since they are voluntary.
“In a country where institutions struggle with limited resources, having honorary envoys who are not paid salaries but instead use their personal connections to bring investment is a positive step,” Putka explained.
He dismissed concerns about family ties, noting that leaders globally appoint trusted individuals.
“What matters is not their surname or origin, but what they can deliver. If these individuals can bring investors, open new trade links, and promote Sierra Leone abroad, then the country stands to benefit,” he added.
Concluding his defence, Alhaji Alpha Khan called for national unity and support.
“President Bio is sending a clear message: those who contribute meaningfully to the nation will be recognised, regardless of their background. This is not a reward; it is recognition of service and a call to do more,” he said.
A political commentator also applauded the president’s decision, noting that the envoys will contribute to tourism, trade, and infrastructure development.
“Thank you, President Bio, for these appointments. This is commendable. Any individual working towards the development of the nation should be recognised. Today it is the Antars; tomorrow it can be others. We should not see them as foreigners but as Sierra Leoneans,” he remarked.
