The Junior National Council has officially opened its 1st session of its 4th term, which also included the election of new leadership.

The positions filled with new members are Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, Chief Whip and Deputy Chief Whip.

Fritz Hangue from the /Kharas Region is elected as chairperson, deputised by Loini Nangolo from Erongo.

Wilhelm Abiatar from Omusati is elected Chief Whip, deputised by Euhole Phillemon from Oshana.

Forty-two young representatives will serve a one-year term and may be re-elected.

Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare urged the Junior National Council to scrutinise existing laws and policies, identify gaps in implementation and propose practical solutions to water and sanitation challenges.

“The Junior National Council is a project, as you have heard from our chairperson, that affirms an important principle, that democracy is strengthened when young people are not only spoken about but are given meaningful opportunities to speak for themselves.”

The Chairperson of the National Council, Lukas Muha, expressed appreciation to the House, as this year's Junior National Council is inclusive, with learners with disabilities among the representatives.

“The National Council is dedicated to nurturing leadership quality and promoting civil engagement among the young people of our nation. Membership of the Junior National Council is drawn from the learners in Grade 8 up to grade 11. Each of Namibia's 14 regions nominated three school-going children, bringing the total membership to 42. A very special right on the Prime Minister, but this year we are so inclusive.”