Windhoek: President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah on Tuesday expressed confidence that the Namibian legislature would be more productive this year, despite voicing disappointment over Parliament's poor performance during last year's session.

According to Namibia Press Agency, while opening the third session of the eighth Parliament in the National Assembly, Nandi-Ndaitwah said she expected lawmakers to work together in the interests of the Namibian people, warning against excessive politicking at the expense of legislative progress.

Parliament last year considered and tabled nine bills but managed to pass only two pieces of legislation: the Appropriation Bill and the Appropriation Amendment Bill. Several bills are expected to return to the House during the current session, including the Regional Councils Amendment Bill, the Land Bill, and the Public Enterprises Governance Amendment Bill.

The President added that notices had also been issued for the introduction of the Accountants and Auditors Regulatory Authority Bill, the Income Tax Amendment Bill, and the Petroleum (Exploration and Production) Amendment Bill. 'Some parliamentarians may be attempting to score political points through debates. However, I strongly believe the majority of our people want to see parliamentarians performing their fundamental constitutional duties of making laws that guide and address the actual needs of our citizens,' she said.

Acknowledging the diversity of political views in both the National Assembly and the National Council, Nandi-Ndaitwah urged lawmakers to remain united by a shared national purpose. 'While Parliament holds diverse political views, members must be united by a common goal, the prosperity and well-being of the Namibian people. Democracy relies on differing opinions, but it survives through a shared commitment to the national interest,' she said.

She further called on legislators, regardless of political affiliation, to rise above partisanship, conduct themselves with dignity, and restore public confidence in the institution. 'Let this Parliament be remembered for constructive engagement, principled leadership, and timely and tangible outcomes that improve the quality of life for our people,' the President said, adding that the executive remained committed to working closely with Parliament to advance sustainable development.