Former ombudsman calls for law enforcement training on human rights

28 January, 2025

By: Selma Taapopi

Former ombudsman John Walters says there is a need for adequate human rights training for law enforcement officers.

Walters’ comments come after a Nust study states that 185 out of every 100,000 people in prison have not been tried.

The report found out that the prosecution office returned more than 199 police dockets from the Wanaheda, Katutura, and Otjomuise police stations for the immediate release of the detained individuals due to a lack of prima facie evidence.

Walters further pointed out the detention conditions as another violation of human rights, adding that the issues in the findings of the study by NUST are reoccurring.

“With the police and it’s my view and I believe it and I’m strong in my belief in that, develop a culture or a practice of rest and then detain and then start your investigation.

“If they are properly trained in human rights, then they would know. I cannot detain the person because I haven’t evidence to detain the person” Walters stated.

The study further attributed the errors to challenges such as overload and understaffing.

Walters said some of these challenges can be addressed by prioritizing the police sector and providing adequate resources.

“My view is that the police, education, health and the justice system there should never be a shortage of money that they face problems that they cannot treat a person, a person’s pre-trial rights are violated by the courts who are the custodians of human right” he said.

Walters added that the study’s findings should be addressed, and the relevant institutions should be considered.

Written by: Wonder Guchu