Michael Mwashindange, the IPC-appointed Shadow Minister of Finance, has criticized current fiscal policies for failing to tackle the high unemployment rate.

He pointed out that the allocation of over N$ 13 billion for debt servicing restricts the government's ability to fund essential public services such as healthcare, education, infrastructure, and social grants.

Mwashindange highlighted the dangers of the N$ 12.8 billion budget deficit, growing national debt, rising interest rates, inflationary pressures, and overall economic uncertainty.

He called for an increase in social grants to alleviate poverty and inequality, enhance access to housing and education, and promote economic growth.

Furthermore, he criticized the Ministry of Finance's internship program for unemployed graduates, arguing that the monthly allowance of N$ 2,500 is inadequate to meet their basic needs.

Mwashindange proposed comprehensive youth employment initiatives that include job creation incentives, vocational training, and sufficient financial support.

He also advocated for tax policy reforms, suggesting a gradual reduction of VAT to 22 percent over five years and an increase in the VAT threshold to N$ 2 million.

He emphasized that these measures would help ease the tax burden on small and medium enterprises.