Windhoek: The week-long seventh National Council induction workshop, underway in the capital, continued on Tuesday with the appointment of several key committee members and the orientation of new members regarding the roles and functions of the council.

According to Namibia Press Agency, during the second day of the special session seminar, National Council chairperson Lukas Muha, who retained his position after last year's elections, stated that the session was convened in accordance with the Rules of Procedure. "The main purpose of today's sitting is to appoint members of the Rules, Orders and Business Committee (ROBC), as outlined in Rule 144. This committee has many responsibilities," he said.

Muha also noted that the council is expected to appoint members to the Committee of Privileges, as specified in Rule 146. "These two high-level committees are central to the effective functioning of our Council, ensuring that our proceedings are conducted orderly and respectfully," he noted.

The chairperson further informed the members that the National Council's Strategic Plan for 2023/24-2027/28 serves as their blueprint for institutional excellence and national impact. "This plan is the product of extensive consultation, reflection, and alignment with Namibia's Vision 2030, the National Development Plans, and the Harambee Prosperity Plan. It is designed to ensure that our institution remains responsive, resilient, and relevant in a rapidly changing world," he remarked.

Muha went on to remind them that the effectiveness of the National Council ultimately depends on the capacity of its members and staff, stating that through continuous training and orientation, council members can enhance their ability to effectively review and scrutinise bills, thereby fulfilling their constitutional mandate with diligence and integrity.

The induction seminar, he noted, will prepare council members to confidently discuss national issues and to effectively and impactfully perform the essential tasks of Standing Committees. The induction workshop will also discuss the renewal of their collective commitment to the constitutional ideals and democratic aspirations of the country, as well as the role and function of the National Council within the framework of the Namibian constitution and its standing rules and orders.

The induction will also include a briefing on the nature of all National Council Committees and Inter-Parliamentary Organisations (IPOs) and the procedures that govern their establishment.