Namibia's independence has brought about a transition in mentality that is affecting the country's public institutions. According to Lazarus Kwedhi, the tragedy of Namibia lies not in a lack of institutions, human capital, natural resources, or laws, but in the transition of mentality from that of freedom fighters and public servants to politicians and employees. This shift has led to public institutions failing to serve their purpose.
Freedom fighters, who once fought for Namibia's liberation, now seem driven by self-interest rather than the public good. Kwedhi notes that genuine freedom fighters did not fight to become politicians but to liberate Namibia from colonial contract labor and exploitation. However, today, many are haunted by a system of "labor hire" and slavery wages, with public hospitals lacking essential resources and informal settlements expanding due to governance failures.
The country's abundant natural resources, including uranium, diamonds, and fish, have not translated to prosperity for its citizens. Despite having ministries, agencies, and commissions for various sectors, Namibia struggles with unemployment, hunger, poverty, and crime. The Constitution, regarded as one of the best in the world, has a comprehensive Bill of Rights, but its implementation seems to be lacking.
A key distinction lies between the mentality of a freedom fighter and that of a politician. A freedom fighter is driven by a cause larger than themselves, willing to sacrifice comfort and position for the people's sake. In contrast, a politician is concerned with the next election, position, and tender, measuring success by their tenure in office.
Similarly, the role of public servants has been compromised by the employee mentality. Public servants once understood their duty to serve the public, protecting state coffers and creating opportunities for the public good. However, employees now prioritize their salary, overtime, and allowances, competing with the public for opportunities and outsourcing public values to private consultants.
The transition from citizens to party members and supporters has also contributed to the challenges. A citizen is loyal to the Constitution and the nation, while a party supporter is loyal to the party, often defending it even when it wrongs the country. This shift has led to a focus on party interests over the public good.
To address these challenges, Namibia needs to revisit the values and mentality of its leaders and public servants. By refocusing on the public good and the needs of its citizens, the country can work towards realizing its potential and overcoming the contradictions that have hindered its progress since independence.
Key points
- The transition from freedom fighters to politicians and public servants to employees has affected public institutions in Namibia.
- A distinction lies between the mentality of freedom fighters and politicians, with the former driven by a cause larger than themselves.
- The country's abundant natural resources have not translated to prosperity for its citizens, with struggles in unemployment, hunger, poverty, and crime.
