Strengthening democracy in Namibia: Time to restructure the opposition
In any healthy democracy, the opposition’s role goes beyond mere dissent—it is a cornerstone of accountability and good governance. Namibia, with its proud constitutional foundations, must now take a bold step to strengthen its democratic institutions by reforming the Office of the Official Opposition.
Currently, only the second-largest party in Parliament receives funding under this office. While this aligns with parliamentary norms, it limits the broader potential of opposition politics. Democracy demands more than a one-party opposition. It requires inclusive, collective scrutiny of government actions.
It is time to broaden the budget and scope of the official opposition to support all opposition parties through a formal opposition oversight committee. This body would function as a multi-party watchdog, providing unified and credible oversight. With representation from across the opposition spectrum—led by the official opposition and including structured roles for other parties—this committee would bring balance and transparency to governance.
The committee would be tasked with securing access to and scrutinising government decisions, both domestic and international. This includes regular briefings on state matters to prevent speculation and misinformation, and to ensure that opposition leaders are equipped with accurate information to engage constructively. Another key responsibility would be to coordinate responses to the national budget, enabling opposition parties to present well-considered alternatives and challenge excessive or misdirected spending.
Beyond oversight, the committee would develop policy proposals grounded in thorough research, expert consultation, and the aspirations of the Namibian people. In doing so, it would transform the opposition into a proactive force for national development. The committee should also be empowered to accompany the Speaker of Parliament on official engagements. Replacing the current practice of sending the secretary of parliament, this would ensure that the opposition is meaningfully represented in high-level discussions, reinforcing democratic balance.
This reform would institutionalise accountability, reduce partisanship, and elevate the opposition's role from reactive critics to proactive contributors. It’s not about diminishing the official opposition’s authority, but amplifying all opposition voices in the spirit of inclusivity and collaboration.
Some may argue that unity among diverse opposition parties is unrealistic. But shared commitment to accountability is enough to form a functional oversight body—this is not a merger of ideologies, but a structural improvement in democratic practice.
A strong, united opposition benefits everyone—including the ruling party. Constructive criticism strengthens governance, enhances service delivery, and builds trust in institutions. It also nurtures the next generation of political leaders through meaningful engagement.
Democracy must evolve. This reform is not just timely—it’s necessary. Parliament must begin discussions, introduce legislative amendments, and create the framework for an inclusive opposition structure. Civil society must support it. And citizens must demand it.
A restructured office of the official opposition will ensure democracy in Namibia is not only preserved but fortified. Let us not wait for a crisis to act—the time for reform is now.
* Hidipo Hamata is a former PDM member of parliament. He writes from Omafo village in Ohangwena Region.
Currently, only the second-largest party in Parliament receives funding under this office. While this aligns with parliamentary norms, it limits the broader potential of opposition politics. Democracy demands more than a one-party opposition. It requires inclusive, collective scrutiny of government actions.
It is time to broaden the budget and scope of the official opposition to support all opposition parties through a formal opposition oversight committee. This body would function as a multi-party watchdog, providing unified and credible oversight. With representation from across the opposition spectrum—led by the official opposition and including structured roles for other parties—this committee would bring balance and transparency to governance.
The committee would be tasked with securing access to and scrutinising government decisions, both domestic and international. This includes regular briefings on state matters to prevent speculation and misinformation, and to ensure that opposition leaders are equipped with accurate information to engage constructively. Another key responsibility would be to coordinate responses to the national budget, enabling opposition parties to present well-considered alternatives and challenge excessive or misdirected spending.
Beyond oversight, the committee would develop policy proposals grounded in thorough research, expert consultation, and the aspirations of the Namibian people. In doing so, it would transform the opposition into a proactive force for national development. The committee should also be empowered to accompany the Speaker of Parliament on official engagements. Replacing the current practice of sending the secretary of parliament, this would ensure that the opposition is meaningfully represented in high-level discussions, reinforcing democratic balance.
This reform would institutionalise accountability, reduce partisanship, and elevate the opposition's role from reactive critics to proactive contributors. It’s not about diminishing the official opposition’s authority, but amplifying all opposition voices in the spirit of inclusivity and collaboration.
Some may argue that unity among diverse opposition parties is unrealistic. But shared commitment to accountability is enough to form a functional oversight body—this is not a merger of ideologies, but a structural improvement in democratic practice.
A strong, united opposition benefits everyone—including the ruling party. Constructive criticism strengthens governance, enhances service delivery, and builds trust in institutions. It also nurtures the next generation of political leaders through meaningful engagement.
Democracy must evolve. This reform is not just timely—it’s necessary. Parliament must begin discussions, introduce legislative amendments, and create the framework for an inclusive opposition structure. Civil society must support it. And citizens must demand it.
A restructured office of the official opposition will ensure democracy in Namibia is not only preserved but fortified. Let us not wait for a crisis to act—the time for reform is now.
* Hidipo Hamata is a former PDM member of parliament. He writes from Omafo village in Ohangwena Region.
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