Government Must Act on Tripartite Recommendation 15: Make National Identity Cards Affordable for Sierra Leoneans

By Hon. Alpha Ben Mansaray
Deputy Parliamentary Spokesman
MP-Moyamba District

15th October, 2026

I wish to make a personal call on the Government of Sierra Leone to urgently implement Recommendation 15 of the Tripartite Committee Report, which calls on the Government to consider further subsidising National Identity Cards to make them more affordable and accessible to citizens.

According to the revised fee structure announced by the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) in February 2026, the cost of a standard National Identity Card for Sierra Leoneans increased from NLe 145 to NLe 165, effective 23 February 2026.

For many citizens, particularly low-income earners, young people, unemployed persons and rural residents, this cost can be a financial burden when transportation and other related expenses are considered.

I believe the Government should consider reducing the cost through a substantial subsidy, especially for eligible citizens who need national identification for electoral participation.

Reducing the fee from NLe 165 to NLe 50, for example, would mean a saving of NLe 115 per card, representing approximately 70% of the current price. This is a proposed subsidy, not an existing government policy, and the Government would need to determine its affordability and funding arrangements.

Such a reduction could make National Identity Cards more accessible, particularly to economically disadvantaged citizens. It could also encourage more eligible citizens to obtain their cards ahead of future elections, while supporting the use of a common national identification system.

Recommendation 15 specifically seeks to reduce the need for the Electoral Commission for Sierra Leone (ECSL) to spend public resources issuing separate voter identification documents. The Tripartite Steering Committee Secretariat’s April 2026 implementation report listed this recommendation as ongoing and identified government subsidisation of cards for eligible voters as a next step.

I therefore call on the Government to publish a clear implementation plan, identify the resources required, and provide the public with a realistic timeline for action.

I recognise that producing secure identity cards involves costs. However, the Government should explore a sustainable subsidy arrangement that balances production expenses with citizens’ ability to pay.

My position is simple: eligible citizens should not be discouraged from obtaining national identification because of financial hardship.

The Tripartite recommendations must translate into practical benefits for the people of Sierra Leone. Making National Identity Cards affordable would be a meaningful step towards national inclusion, accessible public services and democratic participation.

I respectfully urge the Government to move beyond discussions and take concrete action on Recommendation 15.

The time has come to move from recommendation to implementation.