Police officers urged to uphold discipline, integrity
Zambezi Region police commander, Commissioner Andreas Shilelo, has called on officers to uphold discipline and professionalism, warning that their actions impact not only individuals, but also the reputation of the entire police force.
Speaking during a disciplinary hearing training course in Rundu last week, he highlighted the critical role discipline plays in maintaining order within the force.
The training session, which was attended by 41 members from various directorates, regions and divisions, covered key aspects of disciplinary procedures including organisational and legal policies, procedures for instituting disciplinary action, conducting investigations, preparing for hearings, chairing disciplinary sessions and resolving employee grievances.
“Discipline is the backbone of any successful police organisation. It is the foundation upon which we build integrity, professionalism and trust - values that are non-negotiable for members of the Namibian Police," he said.
Shilelo added that enforcing discipline fairly, transparently and consistently ensures that the force upholds the high standards expected both internally and externally.
Not just a formality
“Disciplinary hearings are not mere formalities but essential mechanisms to ensure justice and accountability. They serve as a tool to correct misconduct, uphold ethical behaviour and reinforce the trust placed in us by the public. This training equips you, the participants, with the necessary knowledge and skills to handle disciplinary hearings effectively, ensuring that due process is followed and that the rights of both the complainants and the accused are respected," Shilelo said.
He further noted that understanding the procedures governing disciplinary processes and executing duties with impartiality, fairness and professionalism are crucial for police officers.
"Every action we take is scrutinised, and rightly so. A failure to act decisively and fairly when dealing with internal misconduct undermines the morale of the force and erodes the trust of the communities we serve. This is why systems must be in place to address violations of our code of conduct swiftly and fairly," he said.
The regional commander added that the training aims to empower officers to handle disciplinary matters confidently.
"Upholding our code of conduct, treating others with respect and demonstrating exemplary behaviour are the hallmarks of good policing. Any breach of these principles should be addressed swiftly through proper legal and ethical frameworks. This training is part of our broader strategy to build a disciplined, competent and professional police force that is responsive to society’s needs while remaining internally cohesive and accountable," he said.
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Speaking during a disciplinary hearing training course in Rundu last week, he highlighted the critical role discipline plays in maintaining order within the force.
The training session, which was attended by 41 members from various directorates, regions and divisions, covered key aspects of disciplinary procedures including organisational and legal policies, procedures for instituting disciplinary action, conducting investigations, preparing for hearings, chairing disciplinary sessions and resolving employee grievances.
“Discipline is the backbone of any successful police organisation. It is the foundation upon which we build integrity, professionalism and trust - values that are non-negotiable for members of the Namibian Police," he said.
Shilelo added that enforcing discipline fairly, transparently and consistently ensures that the force upholds the high standards expected both internally and externally.
Not just a formality
“Disciplinary hearings are not mere formalities but essential mechanisms to ensure justice and accountability. They serve as a tool to correct misconduct, uphold ethical behaviour and reinforce the trust placed in us by the public. This training equips you, the participants, with the necessary knowledge and skills to handle disciplinary hearings effectively, ensuring that due process is followed and that the rights of both the complainants and the accused are respected," Shilelo said.
He further noted that understanding the procedures governing disciplinary processes and executing duties with impartiality, fairness and professionalism are crucial for police officers.
"Every action we take is scrutinised, and rightly so. A failure to act decisively and fairly when dealing with internal misconduct undermines the morale of the force and erodes the trust of the communities we serve. This is why systems must be in place to address violations of our code of conduct swiftly and fairly," he said.
The regional commander added that the training aims to empower officers to handle disciplinary matters confidently.
"Upholding our code of conduct, treating others with respect and demonstrating exemplary behaviour are the hallmarks of good policing. Any breach of these principles should be addressed swiftly through proper legal and ethical frameworks. This training is part of our broader strategy to build a disciplined, competent and professional police force that is responsive to society’s needs while remaining internally cohesive and accountable," he said.
[email protected]
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