In a bid to maintain professionalism and uphold the integrity of its operations, the National Police Service (NPS) has introduced stringent guidelines governing the use of social media by its employees.
In a statement by the DCI on social media platforms on Monday, June 10, 2024, the new directives aim to balance the personal freedoms of officers with the necessity of preserving the public’s trust in the force.
The NPS has announced a comprehensive strategy to enhance its direct communication with the public.
This initiative includes the use of community newsletters, government access cable television shows, websites, public appearances by agency members, and public area bulletin boards.
These alternative methods are intended to foster transparency and community engagement, allowing the NPS to disseminate information effectively and promptly.
The newly issued orders set explicit standards for NPS employees’ personal use of social media, particularly when their association with the police service is identifiable.
The guidelines underscore the importance of separating personal opinions from official statements and maintaining a clear distinction between private and professional capacities.
Employees are strictly prohibited from making any official comments on social media about police incidents, policies, or procedures without prior authorization.
This responsibility is designated to spokespersons from the office of the Inspector General or respective Service headquarters.
These measures are designed to ensure that all public communications are accurate and consistent with the official stance of the NPS.
While NPS officers retain the right to participate in public debates and comment on social, economic, or other issues as private citizens, the guidelines emphasize that such comments must be entirely separate from their professional roles.
Officers are instructed not to reference their employment with the NPS or imply that their views represent the Service.
The guidelines also strictly prohibit the posting of offensive, racist, tribal, or obscene material, with violations subject to disciplinary action.
The NPS has outlined specific behaviours expected of officers when engaging in online activities, whether on or off duty.
Officers are required to clearly state that their posts represent personal opinions and avoid any content that could discredit the Service or embarrass the government.
The guidelines prohibit the disclosure of confidential documents, though linking to official documents is permitted.
Additionally, officers must refrain from commenting on ongoing investigations or making offensive remarks about the NPS or their colleagues.
Unauthorized sharing of confidential materials, such as training videos or police notes, is also strictly forbidden.
Officers are advised to remove any uncertain material and seek guidance from senior officers if necessary.
The directives are part of a broader effort by the NPS to ensure that its employees uphold the highest standards of conduct, both online and offline.
The guidelines are designed to protect the reputation of the NPS and ensure that its operations remain transparent and accountable to the public.
