A police officer

I would understand that by lifting the ‘shoot to kill’ order, the Home Affairs Minister is not necessarily telling me to stop enforcing law and order.

I would realise it was just another way of telling me that every suspect is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

I would appreciate that the ‘shoot to kill’ order by the former president was against every principle of the reformed police service—exaggerated use of force is against our shared belief in the sanctity of life, rule of law and human rights—the bedrock of democracy.

How I wish I were a police officer, because I would appreciate that as a one-time victim of a highly politicised police system, the President just wanted to call on the police not to throw human rights and fairness to the dogs when executing my duties.

I would also appreciate that police are not judges; judging is for the courts.

If only I were a police officer, I would realise that I cannot be an investigator, apprehender, prosecutor and judge at the same time.

I would realise that when someone tells me to be responsible, it does not imply that I should stop doing my job.

I would further realise that as a result of my laxity, the levels of lawlessness, crime and general insecurity has increased.

Feedback: garrychirwa@yahoo.co.uk