By Amin Kef (Ranger)
The Vice President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, has officially launched the Sierra Leone Police (SLP)’s High-Level Stakeholders’ Engagement in Port Loko, marking the beginning of nationwide consultations aimed at transforming the Police Force into a people-centered Police Service.
The event, held on Friday, October 10, 2025 in the North-West Region, brought together senior Government officials, local authorities, development partners, Civil Society and community leaders to deliberate on reforms designed to modernize policing and strengthen public trust in law enforcement institutions.
Addressing the gathering, Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, who also serves as Chair of the Police Council, emphasized that the reform process represents a fundamental shift from traditional policing to a more community-oriented, professional and service-driven approach.
“This is the first in a series of public education engagements,” the Vice President stated. “We are transforming the Sierra Leone Police from a force into a service centered on community-oriented policing, strengthening professionalism, building partnerships and improving the internal policing culture.”
Dr. Mohamed Judeh Jalloh praised the overwhelming turnout of participants in Port Loko, describing it as a clear indication of public enthusiasm and support for the reform agenda. “I was impressed by the interest of the public and stakeholders. The turnout was massive, which shows that citizens are ready to play their part in reshaping the role of the police in their communities,” he added.
The reform initiative seeks to deepen collaboration between the Police and the public, ensuring accountability, transparency and responsiveness in policing. It will also focus on enhancing training, discipline and ethical standards within the Force to foster a culture of service not force.
The nationwide consultations will provide a platform for citizens to express their expectations and contribute ideas that can guide the transformation process. The Police Council, under the leadership of Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, aims to use such consultations to develop actionable strategies that align policing with democratic governance and human rights principles.
Speaking at the event, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to supporting the Government of Sierra Leone in its efforts to build a modern, accountable and community-oriented police service. “UNDP Sierra Leone is proud to support this transition to promote professionalism and partnership, laying the foundation for a modern Police Service,” the representative said.
Inspector General of Police, William Fayia Sellu, also highlighted that the reform is part of the Sierra Leone Police’s long-term vision to improve service delivery and rebuild public confidence. He assured that the leadership remains committed to driving internal reforms that will position the SLP as one of the most trusted public institutions in the country.
The Port Loko engagement marks the first phase of the nationwide dialogue, with subsequent consultations scheduled to take place in other regions as the Government continues its drive to make the Sierra Leone Police a people’s service; efficient, professional and accountable to the citizens it serves.
