President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has reaffirmed that no individual, institution or authority is above the law, underscoring the government's continued commitment to accountability, transparency and the fight against corruption.
She said this when she opened the 3rd session of the Eighth Parliament in Windhoek today.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah told lawmakers that the renewed focus on accountability is aimed at restoring and safeguarding public trust in Namibia's institutions – not at pursuing political witch-hunts.
Parliament resumes its work after passing only two of the nine budget-related bills that were tabled in 2024.
"This is very disappointing because the people of Namibia deserve better services from their elected representatives. It is the hope of our people that such a situation will not repeat itself in the second year of the Eighth Parliament. Some parliamentarians may be attempting to score political points through debates. However, I strongly believe the majority of our people want to see parliamentarians performing their fundamental constitutional duty of making laws that address the real needs of our citizens."
The President urged lawmakers, regardless of political affiliation, to rise above partisanship in the interest of national wellbeing.
Dignity, discipline and tangible outcomes that improve the quality of life of Namibians, she says, must form the foundation of parliamentary engagements.
"The path ahead requires mutual cooperation and a renewed sense of urgency from the three organs of government. The Executive remains committed to working closely with Parliament to prioritise sustainable development. We are all leaders, and we must lead with passion."
President Nandi-Ndaitwah also reminded Members of Parliament that wealth generated in Namibia must benefit the majority – not a privileged few.
She stressed that legislation passed in the August House should promote sustainable use of natural resources, with a strategic shift away from exporting raw materials without local beneficiation.
"Last year, the government called on the public to propose amendments to our laws to better address the needs of our people. Some of the critical proposals focus on ensuring meaningful national benefit from our resources. When these amendments are brought to Parliament, they must be considered with urgency."
Bills tabled during the session include the Regional Councils Amendment Bill, the Land Bill, the Public Enterprises Governance Amendment Bill and the Mental Health Bill.
Notices were also issued for the introduction of the Accountants and Auditors Regulatory Authority Bill, the Income Tax Amendment Bill, and the Petroleum Exploration and Production Amendment Bill.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah says the overarching goal is to ensure that Namibians become active participants in national development, rather than mere spectators.