No one is above the law, president says

President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah says no individual, authority or institution is above the law, adding that government’s commitment to accountability, transparency and the fight against corruption remains unwavering.

Speaking at the official opening of the third session of parliament on Tuesday, the president stressed that the goal is not “witch-hunting”, but restoring and maintaining public trust in the country’s institutions.

The president told lawmakers that authority in Namibia rests with the people.

"Parliament therefore carries a responsibility not only to legislate but also to uphold the dignity and integrity of this August House, as they are here on behalf of all Namibians," the president said.

"Robust debate is a cornerstone of our democracy. However, it must always be conducted with respect, discipline and purpose,” she added.

Improve lives

Nandi-Ndaitwah said citizens expect their elected representatives to work diligently, engage in debates that produce solutions, pass laws that improve lives and provide timely oversight that strengthens governance.

She added that the rule of law remains central to peace, justice and sustainable development.

The president said over the past year, parliament considered and tabled several bills, including the Appropriation Bill, the Regional Councils Amendment Bill, the Land Bill, the Public Enterprises Governance Amendment Bill, the Mental Health Bill and the Appropriation Amendment 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.

However, of all these nine bills, only two budget-related bills went through.

"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,” she said.

Collective efforts

Nandi-Ndaitwah said legislation passed by parliament must be robust, principled and future-focused.

She noted that over the past year Namibia has continued to face social and economic challenges, including unemployment, inequality and persistent poverty affecting many citizens.

"These challenges strain the social fabric of our society and call for collective effort and shared responsibility from all three branches of government to create positive change in people's lives. They remind us of the core truth, which I often say: ‘We are too few to be poor.’”

The president underlined further that natural resources must be used responsibly and sustainably.

“Adding value to our products should be one of our core principles to stimulate and grow our economy.”

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