Stefanus Nashama
Political analyst Sakaria Johannes has raised doubts about the transparency of the Namibian Police Force (NAMPOL) recruitment process. On Monday Johannes questioned whether the Inspector General of the Namibian Police, Lieutenant General Joseph Shikongo can accurately assess the absence of backdoor recruitment practices.
Shikongo, while addressing the 908 cadet constables undergoing training at the Ruben “Danger” Ashipala Police Training Centre in Ondangwa on Monday, reassured the public that the recruitment process had been conducted fairly and without favouritism. “The recruitment of police officers is done fairly without backdoor benefits,” Shikongo said.
Johannes, however, expressed concerns about Shikongo’s ability to monitor potential irregularities in the recruitment process. “Shikongo is very fair, but how sure is he that there are no backdoor benefits? Is he part of the recruitment process?” Johannes questioned.
He also highlighted concerns about discrepancies in the recruitment process, noting instances where qualified individuals were not shortlisted.
“How come some people who qualified for Nampol are not shortlisted? What criteria do they look at?” he asked. Despite his concerns, Johannes acknowledged that there is no legal evidence to support allegations of corruption within the police recruitment process.
“Legally, I would agree with Shikongo’s statement because no court of law has proven corruption allegations in the recruitment process,” he said. Johannes added that public speculation, while widespread, lacks concrete evidence.
“While there remains public speculation about the fairness of the recruitment process, I agree that without legal evidence, no conclusions can be drawn about corruption within the Namibian Police recruitment system,” he said.
Social activist Michael Amushelelo added his voice to the debate, claiming that backdoor recruitment has been a persistent issue for over 35 years. “We know very well in this country that it is not about what you know, but who you know, so those individuals who are in close proximity with commissioners or generals in the police are the ones who are recruited,” he said.
In his address, Shikongo encouraged the 908 trainees at the training centre, who are part of a larger group of 1 800 cadet constables undergoing nine months of training, to excel in their programs. He urged them to avoid loans to assist their families or sustain themselves financially.
To support this, the police have introduced courses on financial management and leadership to equip the trainees with skills for their personal and professional development.
Shikongo also emphasised professionalism and impartiality, reminding the trainees of their duty to serve the nation without discrimination or favouritism.
The graduation is scheduled for May, provided the trainees excel in their training.
