The IPC says Swapo harms parliamentary oversight because it leads most National Assembly committees. IPC officials Rodney Cloete and Imms Nashinge called this a constitutional crisis after the recent elections for committee chairs. They claim eight out of nine committees have Swapo leaders. Only the Public Accounts Committee has an opposition chair as required by Standing Rule 14(1).
Swapo Youth League secretary Ephraim Nekongo responded that his party won more seats, which gives them more committee positions. He said all parties serve on committees and can still help with oversight duties. Nekongo added that IPC members need to learn the parliament rules faster instead of complaining.
Former speaker Peter Katjavivi explained that committees help connect the government with citizens through public meetings. He noted that committees can order people to appear and give evidence when needed. These groups check government actions and gather public opinions about new laws. Katjavivi mentioned that regional hearings have proven valuable for collecting feedback from across the country.
Swapo Youth League secretary Ephraim Nekongo responded that his party won more seats, which gives them more committee positions. He said all parties serve on committees and can still help with oversight duties. Nekongo added that IPC members need to learn the parliament rules faster instead of complaining.
Former speaker Peter Katjavivi explained that committees help connect the government with citizens through public meetings. He noted that committees can order people to appear and give evidence when needed. These groups check government actions and gather public opinions about new laws. Katjavivi mentioned that regional hearings have proven valuable for collecting feedback from across the country.
