Parliament has passed into law the National Security and Central Intelligence Bill 2025 after heated debate. The new act repeals and replaces the National Security and Central Intelligence Act 2023 which provides for both internal and external security. It also provides for the establishment of a State Protection Service (SPS) which will provide special security service to the President, Vice President, their immediate family members, Speaker of Parliament, Ministers Supreme Court Judges, Former Presidents, Vice Presidents and Speakers and designated VIPs.
According to the Chief Minister of the Republic of Sierra Leone Dr. David Moinina Sengeh, he noted that “The National Security and Central Intelligence Act, 2025 has gone through the Committee of the Whole House (with amendments), but before I move, kindly allow me to make a short statement. Mr Speaker, Honorable Members, I extend sincere thanks to this House for the depth, candor, and rigor of today’s debate. The process has not been rushed- the National Security and Central Intelligence Bill were gazette over 3 months ago and it has gone through several Committee sittings.
This is the beautiful democracy we promised our people, where the wisdom of our Paramount Chiefs, the vigilance of civil society, the submissions of opposition members and citizens, and the rigor of this Parliament converge to do the right thing for our country. The parent Act served us well, but a modern state cannot fight tomorrow’s threats with yesterday’s tools. It is not merely a legal instrument—it is a forward-looking framework for a safer, more stable, and more resilient Sierra Leone. By strengthening coordination, improving intelligence oversight, and modernizing our security architecture, this Bill positions our nation to anticipate and manage emerging threats—whether they arise from terrorism, organized crime, cyber risks, or regional instability. It ensures that our security institutions operate with professionalism, accountability, and respect for the rules of law.
With the creation of the Special Protection Services, we are following global best practices to ensure that the guardians of our democracy are given mandatory protection including His Excellency the President and the Vice President to the Speaker, the Chief Justice, former presidents and former vice presidents.
Security is the foundation upon which development stands. Without it, progress is fragile; With it, opportunity expands—for businesses, for communities, and for future generations. This Act therefore represents an investment not only in national protection, but in national prosperity. The long-term implications of this Bill are clear: a secure environment that inspires investor confidence, protects the line of succession in governance, safeguards critical infrastructure, and enables sustainable economic growth. Mr Speaker, Honorable Members, I must recognize the invaluable leadership and technical expertise of the Office of National Security (ONS), the Sierra Leone Police, and the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces. Mr. Speaker, Honourable Members, I now Move that the Bill be read the Third Time and passed into Law.”
