Violent Crimes Demand Bold, Decisive Leadership

An alarming increase in violent crime has left many Namibians feeling vulnerable and fearful in their own homes.

The recent brutal murder of a family of six at Usakos has intensified this fear and ignited an outcry for effective leadership to address crime and drug abuse affecting communities countrywide.

It happened over a weekend, a time typically reserved for family. Instead, it brought heartbreak and panic.

Unfortunately, the Usakos tragedy is not isolated. It is part of a troubling trend, with increasingly frequent reports of violent crimes resulting in a loss of life and property at the hands of criminals affected by drug addiction.

Just weeks earlier, a male pupil was brutally stabbed to death in broad daylight along the John Mutorwa Road at Rundu – triggered by petty theft, a mere cellphone.

Such incidents force us to ponder how individuals can commit such heinous acts without fear and basic morality?

Many in our society are increasingly connecting the dots between the rise in violence and the underlying drug epidemic plaguing communities.

TROUBLING TREND

A disconcerting pattern is emerging. Statistics indicate that drug-related crimes are becoming more frequent.

Multiple factors contribute to this crisis: Socio-economic disparities, unemployment and the proliferation of alcohol outlets all play a role.

We need a sustainable and comprehensive response to tackle the root causes.

An unsettling silence surrounds the issue of drug use.

Many communities are hesitant to speak out, fearing a backlash from those involved in the drug trade.

It is imperative that leaders across the spectrum step forward.

Creating an environment in which people can speak freely is crucial for enabling them to escape the oppressive grip of the underground networks that prey on desperation and addiction.

We need a collaborative approach – involving government officials, law enforcement and traditional leaders – to address this issue.

Immediate measures, such as an increased police presence in crime-prone areas, are vital but long-term strategies should be prioritised.

Programmes focusing on substance abuse awareness, alcohol outlets licensing, and recreational activities for at-risk youth can help break the cycle of violence and despair.

Police departments need to reassess their strategies to effectively combat this crisis, aiming to alleviate the fears of citizens.

This call to action reflects not just a moral obligation but is necessary for the dignity of the nation.

The way leaders respond to this crisis will shape public perceptions and our collective mindset.

RESILIENCE AND REDEMPTION

Citizens deserve to feel safe in their neighbourhoods and communities.

Despite the complexities of this moral dilemma, we must confront it head-on.

Leaders should motivate resilience and hope to counteract the prevailing atmosphere of fear and despair.

Policies should not only focus on punitive action against criminals but also encompass rehabilitation and reintegration for offenders seeking redemption.

Importantly, the voices of those directly affected, the citizens, need to feature prominently in shaping these policies.

We need courageous and committed leadership; a government that listens, learns and takes decisive action to restore dignity and safety to all citizens.

The time for such leadership is now.

• Faustinus Shikukutu is a teacher and a resident of the Kavango East region. The views expressed here are entirely his own.

In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.