The Chief Minister of Sierra Leone, David Moinina Sengeh, on Thursday presented before parliament the National Security and Central Intelligence Bill 2025, seeking to establish a new security outfit known as the State Protection Service (SPS).
The proposed legislation aims to repeal and replace the existing National Security and Central Intelligence Act (Act No. 2) 2023, which currently provides the framework for both internal and external security operations in the country.
Central to the bill is the creation of the SPS, a specialized unit designed to provide security protection for top state officials, including the President, Vice President, Speaker of Parliament, and other high-profile government figures.
While presenting the bill, Sengeh argued that the current system of providing security for such individuals is largely ad hoc, with many operatives lacking professional training and proper regulatory oversight.
He warned of increasing threats to national leadership, stressing that modern security challenges have gone beyond conventional policing and military structures.
“Modern threats have evolved beyond conventional policing and military defence. This is a risk on the heads of state’s leadership,” Sengeh stated, emphasizing the urgency for reform.
According to him, only a specialized agency like the SPS can deliver the level of professionalism and structured protection required.
“Effective protection of state leadership now requires a specialised doctrine, dedicated training and a unified command. The State Protection Service can provide just that, and it is the justification for amending the National Security and Central Intelligence Act, 2023,” he added.
Despite the justification, the bill faced resistance from several members of parliament, particularly over the proposed establishment of the SPS.
Deputy Leader of Government Business, Bashiru Silikie, raised concerns about the long-term sustainability of the proposed service. He cautioned that the agency could become politicized and potentially driven by loyalty to those in power rather than national interest.
Similarly, Abdulai Charles, representing Bo District, questioned the necessity of the SPS, highlighting the risk of overlapping responsibilities with existing security institutions such as the police and the military. He urged the Chief Minister to clearly define the agency’s mandate to avoid duplication of duties.
Following deliberations, the Leader of Government Business and Majority Leader in Parliament, Mathew Sahr Nyuma, moved a motion for the bill to be referred to the legislative committee for further scrutiny.
The motion was adopted, signaling that the proposed legislation will undergo detailed examination before any final decision is made.