Port Loko, Friday, 10th October 2025 – Sierra Leone’s Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, has officially launched nationwide stakeholder consultations on police reform, beginning in Port-Loko, North-West Region. The initiative marks a significant step in the government’s ongoing efforts to transform the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) from a “force” into a “service-oriented” institution.
Addressing a well-attended town hall meeting, Vice President Dr. Jalloh described the event as the first in a series of public engagements aimed at ensuring inclusivity and national dialogue around the reform process. He noted that the transformation of the SLP is focused on enhancing professionalism, welfare, infrastructure, and training within the institution.
The vice president emphasised that the transition is anchored on three key pillars – strengthening police-community collaboration, building stronger partnerships, and improving the internal policing culture. He commended the impressive turnout and public enthusiasm, noting that it reflected citizens’ readiness to participate in reshaping the role of the police in promoting peace, trust, and accountability.
He also lauded the Inspector General of Police (IGP), William Fayia Sellu, for his pragmatic leadership in driving the reform process, highlighting his commitment to modernising police operations and deepening public confidence.
In his remarks, IGP Sellu explained that discussions around the police transition began in 2014 but gained momentum following his appointment and subsequent consultations with the vice president. He stated that after presenting the transition document to the Police Council, the SLP engaged the UNDP and other partners to support the reform process. He added that the Police Act of 1964 and the Disciplinary Regulations of 2001 are currently under review to align with modern policing standards.
The IGP further noted that the SLP has embarked on nationwide engagements with police personnel and community stakeholders to prepare mindsets for the shift towards service-centred policing, describing this as key to maintaining peace and stability
Representing the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Madam Mabulara Tsuene reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to supporting the SLP’s transition. She stressed that a service-oriented police works closely with communities, builds mutual trust, and strengthens accountability and the rule of law.
The event attracted a wide range of stakeholders, including Paramount Chiefs, the Resident Minister of the North-West Region, the Mayor of Port Loko City Council, ceremonial chiefs, school pupils, and other community representatives. Many commended the government and the IGP for taking a bold step towards transforming policing in Sierra Leone.
The engagement concluded with cultural performances by Paramount and ceremonial chiefs, symbolising community unity and support for the reform initiative.
SLP Media Team
