SL Deputy Permanent Representatives to the UN Bid Farewell

Sierra Leone’s newly appointed Deputy Permanent Representatives to the United Nations, Kalilu Totangi and Michaela B. E. Swallow, officially bid farewell to President Julius Maada Bio at State House in Freetown on Monday, March 17, 2025, as they prepared to assume their new roles in New York.

During their meeting, both diplomats pledged to represent Sierra Leone’s interests on the global stage with dedication and integrity.

Kalilu Totangi, who will serve as the Deputy Permanent Representative for Political Affairs, expressed his gratitude to President Bio for the appointment. He reaffirmed his commitment to advancing Sierra Leone’s political and diplomatic priorities at the UN.

Michaela B. E. Swallow, the Deputy Permanent Representative for Legal Affairs, also expressed her appreciation, describing the appointment as a great honor. She commended President Bio’s leadership in strengthening democracy, peace, and development in Sierra Leone, adding that his governance has demonstrated remarkable progress.

With 17 years of legal experience—including her tenure as President of the Sierra Leone Bar Association and participation in various regional and international legal bodies—Swallow emphasized that she is well-prepared to address complex legal challenges at the UN. Her focus will include sustainable development, human rights, women’s empowerment, global peace, and UN Security Council reform.

Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Timothy Musa Kabba informed the President that both appointees had received parliamentary approval and completed the necessary protocol training. He noted that their visit marked a formal farewell before they embark on their new assignments.

President Bio congratulated Totangi and Swallow, expressing confidence in their ability to excel in their roles. He assured them of his full support and emphasized that their work would be crucial to Sierra Leone’s diplomatic efforts at the UN Security Council.

Before their appointments, Kalilu Totangi served as Chairman of the National Council for Civic Education and Development, while Michaela Swallow held key legal positions, including Senior Legal Counsel at the Petroleum Directorate.