The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Constitutional, Legal Affairs and Petitions in the National Assembly held a public consultation in Otjiwarongo on the review and reform assessment of the Namibian Constitution.

The Namibian Constitution has undergone three amendments since it was adopted at independence in 1990.

Speaking during the consultation, Chairperson of the committee, Pohamba Shifeta, emphasised that a constitution is not a static document but a living one that must respond to the changing needs and aspirations of society.

"When people see the need to amend it, they may do so through this process without the urge to diminish our constitutional values that are democracy, rule of law and justice for all. This is the foundation of our Namibian Constitution. It is the responsibility of this committee to collect information from your submission for parliament to effect amendments when it is deemed necessary."

He said the process of amending the constitution must be inclusive and participatory so that all Namibians can freely share their experiences, concerns, and views without fear or prejudice.

The consultation brought together various stakeholders, including youth representatives, people with disabilities, traditional authorities, community members and implementers of customary law.

Otjozondjupa Governor John ||Khamuseb said, "There is a pressing need to review outdated laws that are no longer aligned with current socio-economic realities. Many of these laws were inherited from past systems and are not conducive to inclusive development, innovation, and equitable service delivery."

The engagement formed part of efforts aimed at assessing whether aspects of the Constitution require reform in line with the country's democratic development and the needs of citizens.