Don’t Be Distracted by Sex

Deputy works minister Veikko Nekundi’s claims proposed changes to the Ombudsman Act could “promote homosexuality” and are a distraction from substantive debate on strengthening the critical role of the public protector.

For years, ministers and lawmakers have ignored the ombudsman’s office’s recommendations and findings, leading to longstanding accusations that it lacks power.

To her credit, justice minister Yvonne Dausab tabled the bill to strengthen the legal framework governing the Office of the Ombudsman.

Yet some lawmakers, such as Nekundi, have decided to focus on homosexuality instead of using this opportunity to improve what is called a Chapter 1 institution.

This means it is established directly under the Namibian Constitution, specifically Article 89, granting it independent status to investigate complaints against government institutions and officials regarding alleged human rights violations, maladministration, and environmental concerns.

It essentially acts as a watchdog for good governance and citizen protection.

Nekundi expressed alarm over what he sees as the ombudsman bill’s alignment with international human rights standards, insinuating that such frameworks might undermine Namibia’s legal stance on same-sex relationships.

“What are these international human rights instruments?” he asked, adding: “Once bitten, twice shy. We believed our Constitution did not support homosexuality, and now we must tread carefully.”

What a shame precious parliamentary airtime was allocated to hate.

Those who drafted our Constitution believed in the importance of having an ombudsman’s office that any Namibian can refer human rights issues to.

Namibia’s lawmakers should realise they have an opportunity to build on the ombudsman bill’s foundational purpose rather than focus on bedroom issues, and who’s having sex with who, which have nothing to do with them.

They are merely diverting much-needed attention away from pressing issues that affect the lives of Namibians.

Our Constitution is meant to protect everyone. The role of our laws and policies in serving Namibians and maintaining human rights is imperative.

The ombudsman’s office also functions similarly to South Africa’s Office of the Public Protector, which was instrumental in combating corruption and power abuse in South Africa between 2009 and 2016 under Thuli Madonsela’s leadership.

Politicians must ensure the ombudsman’s office has the power and financial resources to fulfil its critical mandate, including safeguarding minority rights.

Another reason human rights should inform our law-making processes is so that aggrieved citizens don’t always have to seek Supreme Court judgements.

The newly tabled ombudsman bill suggests ways to create an impartial, inclusive and effective body that does not answer to any political party.

In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.