April 24, 2018 By Ibrahim Tarawallie
Prominent Lebanese-Sierra Leonean business guru, Ezzart Basma, was on Sunday, April 22, 2018 crowned Honourary Chief of the Yams Farm Community, east of Freetown.
The inauguration ceremony was conducted by the Mende Tribal Chief in the Western Area, Chief Gibao Young, together with the Kono Tribal Chief, Sahr O. Gbekie, who also doubles as the Chairman Council of Tribal Heads,.
The ceremony was graced by other tribal heads in the Western Area, members of the Lebanese community and community elders.
Mr. Basma played a pivotal role for the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) to win the just concluded elections as his sons were with President Julius Maada Bio during the campaign.
In his statement after being crowned Chief, Chief Basma said: “I heartily accept this chieftaincy title. This is my happiest moment and let me assure that your cry of bitterness and happiness will be mine at all times.”
He said he is and will continue to be a proud Sierra Leonean because he was born and raised in the country, adding that the betterment of the country would be a plus for everyone, irrespective of tribe, religion and political affiliation.
He urged all and sundry to throw their unflinching support behind the new government led by President Bio to move the country forward, while congratulating the new administration.
“I have known President Bio for the past thirty (30) years. He is very intelligent, hard-working and a man of his words,” Chief Basma said.
Speaker after speaker described Chief Basma as a man who is down-to-earth and ready to help when approached.
They said he has been very supportive to not only the Yams Farm community but also to a good number of other Sierra Leoneans across the country.
“He is a born Sierra Leonean, a friend, brother and our child. We are indeed grateful of all his good work,” Chief Young said.