The Security and Intelligence Agencies Bill, 2025, which was passed by Parliament, reinstates the Bureau of National Intelligence (BNI) as the official name of the organization that was once known as the National Investigations Bureau (NIB).
The Bill significantly alters Ghana’s national security structure and was approved on Wednesday, March 18.
Earlier on February 19, Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka, the Minister of the Interior, gave an explanation of the reasoning behind the rebranding, stating that it was done to clear up misunderstanding surrounding the NIB moniker, which is frequently confused with the National Investment Bank.
Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Minority Leader, was against the measure, warning that it would result in abuses of individuals’ rights and consolidate excessive authority within the national security agency. He regarded the issue as one of great political importance.
“A reference to the Bureau of National Investigations, the National Intelligence Bureau or the internal intelligence agency in any enactment or document existing before the coming into force of this Act shall be construed as a reference to the Bureau of National Intelligence. A reference to the external intelligence agency in any enactment or document existing before the coming into force of this Act shall be construed as a reference to the Research Department.” states the Minority Leader.
Furthermore, the Act eliminates the substantive role of a Minister for National Security by giving the President the authority to appoint a minister to supervise the National Security Coordinator.
In order to improve subnational coordination, the Bill formally acknowledges Regional and District Security Councils and creates a complete legal framework for the National Security Council’s operations.
Additionally, it describes the responsibilities of important state entities in carrying out government security policies that address both foreign and internal threats.
The creation of the Office of the National Security Coordinator as a crucial component of the security and intelligence framework, which aims to improve coordination and boost the efficacy of Ghana’s security system, is a significant aspect of the legislation.
In keeping with the government’s policy orientation on national security reforms, the proposal also aims to repeal the Security and Intelligence Agencies Act, 2020 (Act 1030).
Source: newsthemegh.com