President Nangolo Mbumba has urged members of the Namibian Defence Force (NDF) to guard the country against elements that want to destabilise peace.
Dr. Mbumba, who is also the Commander-in-Chief of the NDF, was speaking at the pass-out parade of 148 officer cadets following the completion of a regular commissioning course at Rundu.
The officer cadets underwent an intensive training programme of 18 months in command, leadership, and resource management.
The Commander-in-Chief of the Namibian Defence Force commended the force for the diligence, commitment, and professionalism it displayed during the mourning period of the late President Hage Geingob.
"Allow me to thank the Minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs, Deputy Minister, Executive Director, Chief of the Defence Force, Commandant, and all the instructors of the NDF Training Establishment for having produced these stellar and well-qualified officer cadets who will be able to meet the modern challenges of the 21st century in the military domain."
A moment of silence was also observed in honour of the late President Geingob.
President Mbumba urged men and women in uniform to be vigilant and guard against those who have ambitions to disturb the peace during upcoming election campaigns.
"There are a few elements that may try to seize the moment of political campaigning to sow the seeds of division by fomenting violence and civil unrest. Others may try to seize the cover of election campaigns to engage in nefarious and criminal activities. For that reason, together with the Namibian Police, be on high alert to enforce peace, stability, and order. You must swiftly and without hesitation remind those who harbour these divisive ideologies that they have no place in the Namibian House. Let us remind those who think they can disturb the Namibian people that our peace is here to stay. Our peace is priceless because it was earned through the ultimate sacrifices made by our heroes and heroines, whose blood waters our freedom."