OSHAKATI – Safety and security minister Lucia Iipumbu has called on newly graduated police officers to uphold integrity and resist corruption as they begin their law enforcement careers.

Speaking on behalf of the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Namibian Defence Force Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah during the graduation ceremony of the Police Basic Training Course 1 of the 2025/2026 financial year at Oshakati Independence Stadium on Friday, Iipumbu said police officers carry a national responsibility that requires discipline, professionalism and accountability.

“As you take your oath of service today, you are not merely accepting employment; you are embracing a calling. A calling that demands integrity, courage, impartiality, and unwavering dedication to justice. 

The uniform you wear is not only a symbol of authority, but also a symbol of the trust the Namibian people place in you,” she said.

Iipumbu warned graduates against engaging in corruption, bribery and abuse of public resources despite the challenges often faced in policing.
“Resist corruption, bribery and the abuse of public resources, for these are non-negotiable. 

True honour in service is measured not by wealth, but by character, discipline, and the trust that the people place in you,” she said.

She further stressed that police officers are expected to maintain discipline and professionalism both on and off duty, as their conduct shapes public confidence in law enforcement.

“In many ways, a police officer is never truly off duty, because their conduct, character, and actions continue shaping public trust in law enforcement even beyond official working hours. 

You must therefore uphold the highest standards of professionalism, discipline, and personal conduct at all times,” Iipumbu added.

The minister also urged the graduates to exercise authority lawfully and responsibly while respecting human rights and the rule of law.

A total of 1 380 cadet constables graduated during the ceremony and will be deployed across the country to carry out various policing functions including crime prevention, community policing, border management and public order management.

-Nampa