In my article ‘More Youths Must Be Represented in Leadership Roles’ (The Namibian, 16 April), I emphasised the need for greater youth representation in leadership positions.
I highlighted how many institutions and organisations failed to mentor young people to take up leadership roles.
This results in a lack of young leaders ready to step up when the time arrives. I also underscored the contributions young people can make and why it is crucial they are represented at leadership levels.
However, that article was a contribution addition to an ongoing discussion about the importance of youth representation rather than introducing new insights to the conversation.
As Namibia prepares for the upcoming Presidential and National Assembly elections, recent events have surpassed my expectations.
A STRANGE ELECTION YEAR!
While I anticipated heightened activity, I never imagined it would be this chaotic.
From campaign strategies and manifestos to internal conflicts within political parties, as well as politicians shifting allegiance, the political scene has become both fascinating and comical.
What is also striking is the wave of positive changes coinciding with this election year.
Fuel prices have dropped, the repo rate has decreased, and no destination seems too distant for leaders to visit, to list a few.
It is remarkable how, out of nowhere, high profile leaders are now attending even the smallest events, like the inauguration of a school boundary wall.
It almost makes me wish every year was an election year!
However, what has truly caught my attention was the submission of parliamentary lists by various political parties.
Many feature significant youth representation, which is commendable. However, the real question is whether these young individuals made it onto the lists based on merit.
Interestingly, the focus seems to have shifted from which party has the most youth representation to which party has the youngest candidates.
While it is crucial to have young people in leadership positions, it is equally important to ensure that they possess the necessary skills and experience for the roles they are given.
It’s not just about sending as many young people to parliament as possible; it’s about ensuring they are competent and capable of fulfilling their duties.
SEIZE THE MOMENT
Not all young people sent to parliament have lived up to their potential.
Some have impressed us, while others have been a disappointment.
The dream of young Namibians is to have someone in parliament who truly represents the youth, champions their causes and works toward improving the their lives.
To the young individuals on party lists, should you make it to parliament, regardless of your political affiliation, remember that you carry the hopes and expectations of Namibia’s youth.
Unite across party lines, set aside political differences, and work together to improve the lives of our young people.
You are not just representatives of a political party; you are the voice of an entire generation.
Seize this opportunity to leave a lasting legacy for Namibia’s youth and pave the way for a brighter future.
- * Asser L N Nakale is an assistant archivist in the ministry of education, Oshikoto region. This article is written in his personal capacity; Facebook: Asser L N Nakale; laudikanakale@gmail.com
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