Africa-Press – Namibia. Former president Hifikepunye Pohamba has called on ruling party lawmakers not to discard input merely because it is presented by a member of the opposition.
Pohamba made this call during a courtesy visit by information minister Emma Theofelus at his home in Okanghudi in the Ohangwena region. Theofelus engaged the veteran politician in what she described as a wisdom-tapping visit.
“If the opposition are pointing out something, let’s look into what they are saying. And when we are going to respond to them, we have checked [done our homework]. If they are right, why can’t we say, ‘Fellow citizens, you’re right. We are looking into that situation,’” the statesman said.
There, Pohamba also urged Namibians to safeguard the country’s peace and unity, warning that tribalism and conflict have no place in a nation striving for development.
The minister used the opportunity to donate six tablets to the community library located at Pohamba’s residence, aimed at improving access to digital learning tools for young people and community members.
Speaking during the engagement, Pohamba cautioned against divisions among Namibians, saying tribalism undermines national unity. The former president also called on citizens to support the leadership of President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, saying the task of developing the country requires collective effort.
“She has a daunting responsibility to develop Namibia, and she cannot do it alone. All Namibians must support the leadership of the President,” Pohamba said.
Reflecting on Namibia’s liberation struggle, Pohamba stressed that the country’s freedom came at a heavy price and must, therefore, be protected.
“Namibians were killed for us to attain this freedom, so we must guard it and embrace it. I would not want to see Namibia at war again. Let us keep peace and develop our country peacefully,” he added.
Pohamba further recalled advice from Founding President Sam Nujoma, who consistently emphasised unity and peace as the foundation of a stable nation. Meanwhile, Theofelus said the donation of tablets forms part of the ministry’s efforts to promote digital literacy and expand access to information, particularly for young learners in communities.
During her visit, Theofelus also stopped at Okanghudi Combined School, where she encouraged both teachers and learners to redouble their efforts in pursuit of academic excellence.
Acknowledging the challenges and resource shortages faced by the school, she urged the education community to remain committed to achieving outstanding results and to strive to make the school a centre of excellence with a 100% pass rate.
She further advised learners to take their studies seriously, reminding them that their future is in their hands and that hard work today will help them avoid becoming part of the growing unemployment statistics.
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