What the electorate deserves to know

Namibia obtained its independence on the 21 of March 1990, offering a glimmer of hope for millions to live fulfilling lives with no limitations.Sadly, after 34 years, citizens are still dreaming of better days. Analysing the conditions and events leading up to independence, one would immediately realise that this was merely a system personnel reshuffle, not the revolution that many had laid down their lives for.The fact is that the colonisers have made countless sacrifices to attain their perceived superiority, which has of course come with tremendous advantages and they are not prepared to give up any of their benefits emanating from the perceived superiority, at least not now when economic times are more harsh than they have ever been. Another hard reality is the economic enterprises established by the colonisers on the premise of our exploitation. Can you imagine just how much turmoil there would be if we were really allowed to achieve true freedom, both politically and economically?The political freedom we enjoy today stands because of the continuity of the systems established in colonial times. The colonial masters came, befriended us, forcefully took our land, drafted constitutions and laws to legally protect their illegal gains and politely handed these legal systems for our adoption at independence. It is no wonder that you’re still not able to pass Oshivelo with your uncooked meat and it should come as no surprise that oppressive colonial laws are still cited in our courts to this day in matters of significant adjudication.Can you imagine the consequences that would result from us getting our land back by passing laws identical to those used by the colonial masters to protect their ill-gotten wealth? Never mind, just look at neighbouring Zimbabwe and you will understand the depth of the colonial system and how it intertwines with the overall international dynamics, which, to be fair, uphold the illegal advantages accumulated during the many years of permitted colonialism.A better lifeThe beauty of all of this is that it doesn’t matter who wins the elections – the mechanisms in place (especially the Constitution) are such that the radical changes that we so drastically need to hand the masses a shot at a better life stand almost no chance of realisation under the current system.Swapo has lost control of both major coastal towns (Swakopmund and Walvis Bay) and Windhoek, but have we seen any tangible changes/differences since the handing over of power in these towns? Tariffs are still increasing, and land is still expensive. If anything, service delivery is even worse and nothing has changed besides the economic position of those who came into power.The problem lies therefore not in the personnel but rather in the system and its frustration that quickly drives incumbents to turn their motives towards self-enrichment upon realising the Kilimanjaro standing in the way of genuine economic emancipation for the masses.Can you imagine what will become of the Namibia dollar if its peg to the South African Rand is derecognised?Can you imagine what would become of our banking industry, insurance industry and economy at large? Can you imagine what would become of our food security if South Africa were to close its borders and sanction exports to Namibia? Now imagine the effects of all of this coupled with international sanctions prohibiting us from trading our fish and mineral resources.That will be the result of the change we really need – the change that will enable all Namibians to live decent lives irrespective of their social or economic standing – that’s how much it costs!But for someone residing in the Havana informal settlement with no water or electricity and an empty dinner table, the cost may well be justifiable, considering that the scenarios just described are their current reality.What Namibia needs is a strategic approach to attain self-sufficiency in all critical areas to buffer against any unfavourable actions that may come as a concomitant of the pursuit of genuine economic prosperity for the masses.Those parading the notion of change and claiming to feel the winds of change sweeping across the African continent are fully aware of all the limitations in place and the extent of practical adjustments that can be effected, but of course, the time for change of personnel due to self-enrichment is now!*Panduleni Nghitila is a biochemist and aspiring chartered accountant with a passion for tangible transformative reforms.#NamibiaDecides2024

What the electorate deserves to know

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Namibian Sun 2024-11-25

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What the electorate deserves to know

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Namibian Sun 2024-11-25

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