The 8th Parliament is now in session, and former National Assembly Speaker Professor Peter Katjavivi shared his thoughts on what new MPs should focus on.

Katjavivi expressed himself during an interview on the nbc programme, 'Inside the Chambers'.

Professor Katjavivi, who served as National Assembly speaker for ten years, said he has been part of Namibia's Parliament since its beginning.

He was a member of the committee that helped craft the country's Constitution.

"Our Constitution was through consensus. The majority party that happened to be Swapo did not dictate and force things. We recognised the fact that the constitution is the living document that safeguards the interests of Namibia forever. There will be issues here and there that need to be revisited, but at the end of the day, it provides the roadmap for the future. Parliament is a place we have come to, and I want to give an example of the motion on genocide that the late Chief Riruako brought to Parliament. He chose not to come with that document and present it; he went around soliciting opinions from other political parties, and when that motion was brought on the floor of the house, there was already consensus."

Looking back, he says that no matter their disagreements in Parliament, MPs must learn to work together. 

He believes that for MPs to succeed and meet the expectations of the nation, they need to prepare well before presenting ideas.

"I might have my own wish from the particular perspective where I come from, but I must also recognise the fact that there is a great deal to be said in favour of sharing that particular point of view. Try marketing it and let the chief whips of various political parties in the 8th parliament begin to come together, sharing ideas, etc. This is not a sign of weakness but a sign of strength."

Professor Katjavivi says he is pleased to see young MPs in Parliament, stressing the importance of teamwork.