The National Assembly and the National Council had a joint session today to commemorate the 34th anniversary of the Namibian Constitution.
Parliamentarians paid tribute to the late President Hage Geingob, reflecting on the profound journey that led to the birth of the Constitution, adopted on February 9, 1990, under the leadership of Dr. Geingob.
The adoption of the Namibian Constitution exactly 34 years ago ushered in the road to a new state, dismantling apartheid-era laws, ensuring equality before the law, and guaranteeing fundamental human rights.
The Speaker of the National Assembly, Professor Peter Katjavivi, lauded the government's substantial strides in achieving national reconciliation, racial equality, and gender parity.
Proudly spotlighting this progress, he underscored the National Assembly's near-equal representation of men and women, coupled with a noteworthy increase in young parliamentarians.
These rights, which are absolute and enjoyed by every Namibian, are a cornerstone of the country's national identity.
"Through initiatives like the Children's Parliament and the Junior National Council, we are fostering a culture of democracy and leadership among our youth, equipping them to face the challenges of tomorrow. As we honour this day, we also pay homage to the late President Dr. Hage Geingob. His monumental contribution to the crafting of our Constitution was driven by a deep commitment to inclusivity, dialogue, and national unity," said Professor Peter Katjavivi, Speaker of the National Assembly.
Professor Katjavivi stated that Geingob's endeavours guaranteed the crafting of the constitution in a spirit of consensus, encapsulating the enduring principles of unity, democracy, and human rights that have steered Namibia since its independence.
He further emphasised that Geingob's legacy as a unifying force advocating for democracy and development will persist, serving as an ongoing inspiration for Namibia.
"This achievement, crafted under the exceptional leadership of H.E. Dr. Hage G. Geingob, stands as a testament to the spirit of unity and compromise that drove our Founding Fathers and Mothers to draft the "Mother of All Laws" at that particular time. Let us celebrate Constitution Day by reaffirming our commitment to the values enshrined in our Constitution."
In a heartfelt tribute to the late President Geingob, members of parliament united in a seminal moment to pay their collective respect to the departed leader.