Manila:Members of Parliament have expressed concerns regarding the Employment Equity Commission's governance and reporting issues. During the debate on the nomination of new and replacement members to the 8th Commission, they called for stronger accountability and faster workplace transformation.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the discussion followed a motion by Justice and Labour Relations Minister Wise Immanuel, seeking approval for nominees to serve the commission's term from March 2025 to February 2028. The appointments aim to address representation gaps for women, people with disabilities, and registered employers' organizations.

Lawmakers criticized the commission for not publishing annual national reports for over five years, with the last data from 2019. Budget constraints, staff shortages, and a failed electronic case management system were blamed for these delays. The nominees include Patrick Hamunyera Ntupi, Joyce Mukupi, Ingrid Kalangula, Matheus Shishiveni Hashoongo, and others.

While supporting the appointments, lawmakers stressed the need for better accountability and effective reporting. Vilho Ihemba from the Independent Patriots for Change highlighted the importance of following the rules and demanded explanations for the delays in reporting.

Armas Amukoto emphasized that employment equity should extend beyond appointments to remove employment barriers and promote fair opportunities. Lucia Mbuti advocated for transparency in pay reporting, workplace safety, and stronger support for women in high-paying fields.

Lilian Lutuhezi pointed out the need for fairness in opportunities, while Michael Mulunga highlighted non-compliance issues among employers and called for the publication of overdue reports and law enforcement.

Martin Lukato of the National Democratic Party argued for an overhaul of the commission, citing its structural vulnerabilities and the lack of up-to-date demographic data as challenges to workplace transformation in Namibia.