National Council chairperson and member of parliament Lukas Muha has urged members of the National Council to subject the 2026/27 appropriation bill to a careful scrutiny to ensure public resources are used to improve citizens’ lives.
Opening the first session of the seventh National Council in Windhoek on Tuesday, Muha said the bill is central to funding national development programmes, and must align with the Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6).
“It is our duty to ensure that these resources are allocated transparently and directed towards the priorities of the nation, in alignment with NDP6 and other frameworks,” he said.
The session, scheduled to run for 11 days, will focus on the deliberation of the bill, which outlines government spending for the 2026/27 financial year.
Muha noted that all standing committees of the council are now fully functional, having established leadership and drafted activity plans for the upcoming financial year.
He added that the presence of seven deputy ministers within the council is expected to improve efficiency in addressing policy questions and legislative matters.
Beyond the budget, he called for strengthened oversight by parliamentary committees, noting that their work must produce tangible outcomes for citizens.
He warned against oversight reports becoming ineffective due to lack of implementation, adding that recommendations contained in the oversight reports must not just be words on papers.
“I urge that this oversight be effective and efficient, with tangible impact felt by the people of Namibia. Oversight must lead to better services, timely delivery of goods and visible development outcomes,” he said.
The chairperson also urged members to maintain discipline and respect during debates, highlighting the importance of constructive engagement as the council undertakes its legislative responsibilities.
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