The Inspector General (IG) of Police George Kainja has advised female officers not to present themselves as victims or incapable of anything that will give room to their male counterparts to abuse them sexually.
He made the call on Saturday at the National Police Headquarters in Lilongwe where he interacted with the new executive of National Police Women Network.
Kainja reminded the women in uniform that the platform was created to promote women empowerment and ensure gender equality in the service.
“Most female officers have low self-esteem and they think that they cannot excel in the service without the help of a senior male officer. But it just borders on inferiority complex,” he said.
Kainja also warned female officers against using technology for immoral purposes instead of using it to enhance policing duties.
He, therefore, urged the executive committee to promote and enforce discipline among female officers.
Deputy Inspector General of Police responsible for administration Merlyn Yolamu pleaded with her fellow female officers to protect the image of Malawi Police Service.
She condemned some women in uniform who indulge to sexual relationships with senior officers to gain favours.
Yolamu also encouraged them to upgrade their academic qualifications to climb the ladders in the service.
The network’s chairperson Jessie Nyirongo, who is also anti-motor vehicle in-charge, promised to execute duties according to expectations.
But she asked the IG to follow the 40/60 percentage guidelines when recruiting officers to promote gender equality.
The new executive committee was elected last month at Police Cottage in Mangochi District.
