Symposium delves into Namibian democracy

In a bid to confront pressing issues facing Namibian democracy, the Forum of German-speaking Namibians and Swakopmunder Gesprächskreis joined hands with the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) Namibia-Angola Office to host a symposium titled 'The Challenges to Namibian Democracy' in Swakopmund this past weekend.

Natalie Russmann, resident representative of the KAS Namibia-Angola Office, highlighted the strengths of Namibian democracy, including a progressive constitution, separation of powers and a free press.

Four speakers were invited to share their insights, including Bishop Zephanie Kameeta, media ombudsman and Unam lecturer Dr John Nakuta, Toivo Ndjebela, chief editor of Namibian Sun and Toni Hancox, director of the Legal Assistance Centre.

Contemporary discrimination

Nakuta delved into the theme, 'Is Namibia's Democracy under Siege?'

He examined various factors contributing to this concern, shedding light on significant threats such as poverty, unemployment, and inequality. Nakuta also underscored the occurrence of contemporary forms of discrimination, emphasising systemic institutional and structural biases continued through alleged neutral norms.

Moreover, he expressed deep concern regarding emerging trends that further aggravate these challenges, particularly highlighting the Proposed Public Gathering Bill (2024), which is yet to be officially tabled.

He spoke about the appropriation of ancestral land in the name of development, coupled with failures in conducting proper consultation, ensuring participation, upholding transparency and providing access to information and accountability.

Nakuta also addressed concerns regarding the independence of key state institutions, including the Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN), the Office of the Ombudsman, the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), the Auditor General's Office and the Environmental Commission.

These institutions, vital for upholding democratic principles, face threats to their autonomy and effectiveness, potentially undermining the democratic fabric of Namibia, he argued.

Free press scrutinised

Namibian Sun editor Ndjebela provided a comprehensive overview of press freedom, emphasising its significance within the context of Namibian democracy.

He began his talk with a look at the fundamental concept of press freedom, defining it as the right of media outlets, including newspapers, radio and television, to report news without government interference or control. This definition aligns with the provisions outlined in Article 21 of the Namibian Constitution, which guarantees freedom of speech and expression.

Ndjebela highlighted Namibia's historical commitment to press freedom, citing its consistent ranking as one of Africa's best-performing countries in Reporters Without Borders' World Press Freedom Index.

Vital role

While the country holds the top position in Africa for press freedom, Ndjebela questioned whether this alone suffices as a measure of success.

He pointed out instances such as the suspension of a managing editor at New Era for questioning the judiciary, along with prevalent verbal and legal threats faced by journalists, indicating areas of concern.

Ndjebela also drew attention to legislative issues impacting press freedom, including delayed access to information legislation, which fosters a culture of secrecy within government institutions.

Highlighting the symbiotic relationship between a free press and democracy, Ndjebela emphasised the vital role played by the media in uncovering truth, holding power accountable and empowering citizens to make informed democratic decisions.

Other topics under discussion included 'Observance of Minority Rights in Namibia' and 'Reconciliation – Status Quo?'

The event concluded with a call to action, urging all stakeholders to actively participate in addressing the identified challenges and working towards a more robust and inclusive democracy in Namibia.