Windhoek, February 03 – Speaker of the National Assembly, Honourable Saara Kuugongelwa-Amadhila, opened the 3rd Session of the 8th Parliament on Tuesday with a stirring address emphasizing Parliament’s pivotal role in fostering inclusive development and participatory democracy.
In a joint sitting at the National Assembly Chambers, Kuugongelwa-Amadhila welcomed a high-profile audience and he extended New Year’s greetings and special congratulations to National Council Chairperson Lucas Muha and members of the newly elected 7th National Council, pledging collaborative legislative work.
The theme, “Enhancing the Role of Parliament for Inclusive Development and Participatory Democracy,” framed the session as more than ceremonial. “Today’s gathering is not a mere ceremonial event, but a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to the principles of democracy, accountability, and service to the people of Namibia,” Kuugongelwa-Amadhila stated.
She highlighted the principle of complementarity among government branches, quoting the late President Hage Geingob’s view of the executive, legislature, and judiciary as a “trinity” that strengthens democratic governance. Praising Namibia’s Constitution as the nation’s “moral compass,” she urged recommitment ahead of Constitution Day, noting progress from a divided past to national reconciliation.
Kuugongelwa-Amadhila stressed inclusive development to ensure no Namibian is left behind, with Parliament guarding equity in policies, laws, and budgets. On participatory democracy, she called for stronger citizen engagement via digital platforms, declaring, “Democracy is not an event, but a continuous dialogue.”
The Speaker implored MPs to uphold integrity, transparency, cross-party collaboration, and innovation, positioning Parliament as “the people’s House” reflecting national aspirations. She concluded by inviting President Nandi-Ndaitwah to deliver the official opening address.
