The Inspector General of the Namibian Police, Lieutenant General Joseph Shikongo, confirmed that discussions are underway regarding the legal process of expunction, which involves sealing or destroying criminal records to enhance individuals’ chances of gaining employment.

Shikongo emphasised the importance of expunction in addressing cases where individuals, convicted of offences long ago, continue to face barriers in the job market. 

He shared an example of a 41-year-old woman who was only able to join the police force after extensive legal efforts cleared her record. The offence in question dated back to her being 15 years old, when a police search led to her fingerprints and subsequent record being stored in the system, which later hindered her employability.

“We have already engaged with Commissioner Becker, who heads the relevant division, to advance this process,” said Shikongo. However, he clarified that while the police can make submissions on expunction, final approval rests with members of Parliament, as the police are not lawmakers.

Lieutenant General Shikongo expressed optimism that addressing expunction will help many Namibians overcome employment challenges related to outdated criminal records.