NDI [National Democratic Institute] Namibia : final report -- CO-AG [cooperative agreement] no. 690-A-00-98-00228-00 : consolidation [of] parliamentary democracy in Namibia

In this second phase of a three-phase program (1995- 2002), NDI worked in five areas: Parliament, civil society, public policy issues, the media, and gender. Activities included providing TA to both houses of Parliament, advocacy training to civil society organizations, and technical training to journalists who report on Parliament. This 2-year period saw important advancements in professional structures and legislative procedures, and public participation in Parliament, which is now independent, open, publicly accessible, and a forum for critical debate. It is not "a rubber stamp", but stands out as one of the models of African parliamentary governance that are stimulating a democratic environment and a commitment to the ideals of the Namibian constitution, regarded as one of the most liberally democratic in the world. These advancements were made at a period in time in which Namibia experienced several points of severe conflict, which in other societies would have promoted democratic regression, such as is occurring in Zimbabwe. It is possible that the Parliament and its democratic mechanisms provided a release for the pressure points. For example, the military engagement in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) was questioned and debated on many occasions in the Parliament; this did not occur in any other parliament in the region. The constitutional amendment to allow the President to seek a third term was publicly debated at all levels of civil society in Parliament. When the ruling party split over the issue, it brought to light a significant issue for full public view. The HIV/AIDS pandemic has been central to parliamentary debate and questioning of the executive. Unlike their counterparts in other countries in the region, cabinet ministers are responsive to parliamentary inquires. Contrary to forecasts of autocracy if the ruling party strengthened its majority in 1999 elections, the South West Africa People"s organization (SWAPO) has returned to Parliament with a constitutional majority and has not moved to revise the constitution or abandon the rule of law. Namibia"s democracy faces challenges, but it has institutionalized the tenets of democratic programs. The regional audits illustrated that, after 10 years of independence, Namibians recognize Parliament as the branch of government in which they can express their views and influence policy. NDI"s role in Namibia continues to be defined by the practical implementation of the Agenda for Change. NDI works in close concert with the Parliament and Namibian organizations to help Parliament fulfill its potential as an independent branch of government. As guided by the presiding offices, the emphasis has been on organizational and development training skills for staff; the development of effective committee structures in both houses; clearer definitions of roles and responsibilities of both chambers and their members; and the establishment of a proactive information and research center. (Author abstract, modified)