He is on record as having introduced the 1991 multi-party democracy constitution in Sierra Leone. Born on the 26 January 1937 at Binkolo in a rural town in Bombali District in the northern provinces of Sierra Leone, the late Major General Joseph Saidu Momoh answered the call from beyond on the 3rd August 2003.
21 years have gone by and his legacies as the true ‘Father of Democracy’ lives.
Commemorating the late legend, family members on the 3rd of August 2024 have organized a memorial service at the Limba mosque, Sanders Street, Freetown.
Addressing the gathering, the National Chairman of the All Peoples Congress (APC) Party thanked the family for such a gathering, noting prayers are significant to the dead.
Alhaji Minkailu Mansaray said he was pleased to be part of the event as head of the APC, the political party the late man served as president from November 1985 to 29 April 1992.
Hon. Minkailu Mansaray said the APC is proud of the accomplishment of the late man as a military officer who excelled across Africa as well as president of Sierra Leone, where he was able to roll out several massive development achievements in all sectors including ushering the 1991 multi-party democracy constitution.
Delivering his speech as a family member, the son of the late man, Joseph Saidu Momoh Jr. used the platform to appreciate everyone especially the Islamic clergies for gracing the occasion.
“We continue to honor the memory of a remarkable man, a dedicated leader, and a loving father, Pa Momoh,’’ he said, adding “As his son, I stand before you with a heart full of pride and gratitude, reflecting on the legacy he has left behind.
“His Excellency Joseph Saidu Momoh, the second President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, was more than just the President of Sierra Leone. He was a visionary who deeply cared for the wellbeing of our nation and its people,’’ said Saidu Momoh Jr.
He noted “his journey from humble beginnings to the highest office in the land was a testament to his unwavering dedication, resilience, and the belief that with hard work and unity, we can achieve great things”
He recalled throughout the tenure of his dad as President, he faced immense challenges, yet he remained steadfast in his commitment to national unity, peace, and justice.
The late man, he continued, believed that “our nation’s strength lay in its diversity, and he worked tirelessly to bridge divides and foster a sense of community among all Sierra Leoneans, regardless of their political affiliations or backgrounds’’.
He further stated his late dad’s legacy spanned beyond the shores of Sierra Leone, noting an example of the critical and advisory role he played in bringing an end to the apartheid regime in South Africa.
He also recalled the popular phrase of his dad “ousie cow stand na dae e dae eat’’ but if fight broke, a nation divided cannot stand”.
He said this principle guided many of his dad’s policies and decisions.
“My father’s vision for Sierra Leone was one of a harmonious and prosperous nation, where political differences were set aside for the greater good of our people. He knew that true leadership required listening to the voices of all citizens and striving to build consensus, even in the face of adversity,’’ he said, adding his ability to bring people together, find common ground, and inspire collective action is something he continues to admire and strive to emulate in his own life.
He revealed his dad was a sportsman, a military, a loyal and God-fearing man.
“My father’s vision for Sierra Leone was one of a harmonious and prosperous nation, where political differences were set aside for the greater good of our people. He knew that true leadership required listening to the voices of all citizens and striving to build consensus, even in the face of adversity,’’ he said, adding his ability to bring people together, find common ground, and inspire collective action is something he continues to admire and strive to emulate in his own life.
He revealed his dad was a sportsman, a military, a loyal and God-fearing man.
“As we remember him today, let us also reflect on the values he championed. In these times, when the world often seems divided and polarized, his message of unity and peace is more relevant than ever. Let us honor his memory by continuing to work towards a Sierra Leone where every individual feels valued and heard, where political differences do not overshadow our shared goals and aspirations,’’ he said, reiterating “My father was a man of great integrity and humility. He taught me the importance of serving others, putting the needs of the nation above personal ambitions, and always striving for justice and equality. His love for Sierra Leone was boundless, and his dream for our country was one of lasting peace and progress. ‘’
He used the event to encourage Sierra Leoneans: “Let us also renew our commitment to the ideals he held dear. Let us pledge to work together, across party lines and communities, to build a Sierra Leone that is united, strong, and prosperous. My father believed in the potential of our nation, and it is up to us to carry forward his legacy with the same spirit of hope and determination.’’
Meaningful contributions were also made by the Limba Tribal Head in the western area, Malimba Development Union (MaDU). The Alamin Central Mosque (Limba Central Mosque) presided over the all-important event.
