A new elite protection unit, the Special Protective Service (SPS) charged with protecting the country’s top leaders and visiting dignitaries will be formed soon, according to a draft bill seen by The New Times. 

The draft legislation determines mission, organization and function of the proposed security organ.

The proposed security organ will be responsible for protecting the top five senior officials of country that include, Head of State, President of the Senate, President of the Chamber of Deputies, Chief Justice and the Prime Minister.

Other people to be protected by the organ are visiting Heads of States and governments, President-elect and his or her immediate family, a former President and his or her immediate family and, any other personalities or strategic places as may be designated by competent authority.

The draft bill has already been endorsed by cabinet and awaits to be tabled in parliament.

According to the draft, the security organ will be under the supervision of the Office of the President and, it shall have financial and administrative autonomy and its organisation will be determined by a Presidential Order.

In addition, a Director General and a Deputy Director General are envisaged to head the organ.

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