New national CCTV policy good for our security

The government has prepared a National CCTV Policy that will require public institutions and businesses, among others, to install the gadgets. The new policy requires owners of such buildings to maintain records of regarding make of the CCTV, model, system components including, but not limited to recorders, cameras, lenses, and multiplexers.

Owners should ensure the systems provide reasonable access, connection, linkage and integration mechanisms. Further, all CCTV footage should be disclosed in case of formal investigations where disclosure may help investigations or the prosecution of a criminal offence.

Owners of property or space being overlooked should be informed and CCTV control equipment should be housed within a secure area. It further requires that a clear signage informing the public of CCTV surveillance systems coverage be installed at the places. The owner of the system should be able to provide footage and will be accountable, impartial and fair with procedures for dealing with complaints

The Interior ministry has called on the public to submit views on the policy.  Coming at a time that the country is faced with numerous security threats, including terrorism and robberies, the policy is good and deserves total support. In the past, these CCTV has helped solve various crimes. They can also help in deterring crime in general.

There are, however, those who might fear that the Government is interfering with their their spaces or that police might use the CCTVs to harass them. The government needs to assuage such fears.

Any initiative that is likely to make our country more secure deserves the support of all and sundry.