Retiring police chief Sebastian Ndeitunga says his 17-year and four-month journey as the country’s top cop has not been easy but added he executed the task with honour, dignity and dedication.
“The road was sometimes smooth, but at times, rough and bumpy, but I have managed to finish the race. Thanks to the people of Namibia and to all those who have assisted me,” Ndeitunga said in his final public statement during the command of change ceremony at the Israel Patrick Iyambo Police College in Windhoek.
Ndeitunga yesterday handed over the instruments of power to his successor Joseph Shikongo.
After the late Lukas Hangula, who led the force as police commander for 15 years, and Ndeitunga, Shikongo becomes the country’s third police chief since independence.
“My advice [to you Major General Shikongo] is not to neglect the area of training and retraining of officers and members, as this is the backbone for delivering excellent policing services,” Ndeitunga said to Shikongo.
Ndeitunga also advised Shikongo to keep talking to the force’s cooperating partners in the training sectors so they could help him fill the gap or improve the capacity.
Additionally, he exhorted the whole police force’s administration as well as the rank and file to continue supporting the new inspector general.
“This is very important to ensure continuity in effective and efficient provision of policing services,” he stressed.
“Today is not only filled with great joy, but it is a deep sense of satisfaction, though bittersweet, to thank you all for having been part of the journey that I have been through and bid you farewell.”
Appreciations
Ndeitunga also took the chance to express his gratitude to President Hage Geingob, Founding President Sam Nujoma and former President Hifikepunye Pohamba for their encouragement and trust, as well as for their leadership and guidance, which he said helped him navigate the journey.
He thanked senior management, the rank and file, and everyone else who has been behind the forces’ efforts in the fight against crime in the country, SADC and on the African continent and beyond.
Speaking at the same occasion, safety and security minister Albert Kawana said he will miss Ndeitunga’s soft voice, his coolness in difficult situations and his entertaining stories – most of which were of personal experiences during the war of national liberation.
“I will miss your quick SMS or WhatsApp responses regardless of the time of the night. I wish you a deserved retirement rest, a peaceful rest, and a joyful rest. Always remember, you can always count on us; we will be available for you. Once again, thank you very much,” he said.
Kawana said Ndeitunga followed the footsteps of the country’s pioneers of the liberation struggle.
“He has a very good track record when it comes to his contribution to the liberation struggle of our country, his contribution to international, continental, regional and national crime combating efforts,” he added.
In his acceptance speech, Shikongo promised Geingob and the Namibian people to do everything to the best of his ability to ensure he delivers on the assigned duty.
“I know it is not an easy task, but with the support of all men and women in uniform, the stakeholders and the general public, I am confident that together we will deliver and succeed,” he said.
He also assured stakeholders that his office will be open to working with them, particularly for the mutual interest of improving service delivery to the people and/or countries.
“To our business community, religious and traditional leaders and the general public, please remain assured that the office I am taking is yours and will need your support for us to ensure a continued efficient and effective policing service delivery,” said the incoming police chief.