An induction and orientation seminar for new MPs themed "Fostering Effective and Meaningful Democracy," running from March 24 to March 28, this month, was marked by tension during its first session.
The workshop, aimed at empowering MPs with essential information to help them effectively carry out their parliamentary duties, took an unexpected turn when concerns were raised about its organisation.
The session turned chaotic after a speech by Dr Anthony Tsekpo, an expert on parliamentary oversight.
The MPs questioned why Dr Tsekpo was not properly introduced and why a foreign speaker had been invited.
They also questioned the sponsor of the workshop and why it was not hosted at Parliament, where accommodation costs could have been avoided rather than being conducted at a hotel.
The situation escalated when media representatives were asked to leave, but MPs refused, arguing that there should be no hidden agendas.
Despite the disruptions, Speaker of the National Assembly Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila expressed her satisfaction with the workshop's comprehensive programme, noting that it covered important issues relevant to the administration of MPs' duties.
She further explained the value of the workshop in providing MPs with the necessary information to navigate legal provisions, operational policies and rules.
"The induction creates a platform for sharing information and developing a common understanding of the laws, policies and procedures that govern parliament in order to facilitate the conduct of parliamentary affairs and thus ensure effective implementation of our mandate."
Kuugongelwa-Amadhila also outlined that the new Parliament will face pressing matters, including the timely approval of the national budget to ensure public institutions are equipped with the resources needed to deliver services effectively.
"We therefore have to hit the ground running to be able to meet the expectations of our people."
The Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, Phillipus Katamelo, commended the increasing involvement of young Namibians in leadership roles, stressing that this development aligns with the nation's core values.
"As parliamentarians, we play a crucial role in shaping Namibia's developmental policies and laws that advance and uplift the living standards of all Namibians. As you know, you are now the representatives of the entire Namibia, irrespective of political affiliations. It's political campaigns that bring us to power, but surely it's not a political agenda that drives development; that's the contrast of our job."
The first session of the 8th Parliament is set to start tomorrow.