The National Assembly resumed today after about a month on recess, with the first order of the day being the Public Governance Amendment Bill.

The Bill sparked a debate in the lower house, with MPs from the opposition opposing the Bill, citing centralisation of power over public enterprises in the Office of the Prime Minister.

"The Prime Minister now controls appointments, removals, salaries and even strategic business plans. Meanwhile, the sector minister becomes the shareholder representative."

While the intention behind such a move may be to improve coordination and ensure policy alignment, the practical implications raise serious concern. However, Hon. Speaker, placing enterprises under the office of the Prime Minister risks creating excessive centralisation of authority."

Despite supporting the Bill, Swapo Party MP Peya Mushelenga stated that the act should specify what qualifications are required for board members and other staff members.

"It doesn't help to appoint junior peasants in their respective workplaces to come and serve as board members. Because this is one of the reasons why you have problems in companies: because people start preparing themselves. They are packaged with the package of the CEO and the executives in the companies that they are serving."

Other contributing members fully supported the Bill.

"The provisions on dividend policies and financial oversight, including the involvement of the minister of Finance, will ensure that public enterprise contributes meaningfully to the national discourse while remaining sustainable and growth-orientated. Importantly, the ball also enhances cabinet oversight and collective decision-making, ensuring that major transactions, investments and structural changes are made in the best interests of the state and the Namibian people."

"This alignment is critical for ensuring that the public enterprises are not only commensurable but also developmental-orientated and responsive to national priorities."

The debate on the Bill has been postponed to next week Tuesday.