Social Activist Rinaani Musutua speaks on Namibian Election Promises: Old Age Pension Hike Sparks Skepticism

In a recent interview with Future Media News, Rinaani Musutua, a Social Activist, reflected on promises made as Namibia approaches a crucial election year. The below is the full transcipt of this.

“In a strategic move ahead of the upcoming elections, Namibia’s ruling party, Swapo, has pledged to increase the old age pension to N$3,000, as announced by President Geingob earlier this year. The promise, however, has sparked skepticism, with many viewing it as a political tactic to secure votes from the elderly demographic.

President Geingob’s commitment to raising the old age grant is perceived by some as an election ploy, with doubts lingering about the feasibility of such an increase. The timing of the announcement, just before the elections, adds to suspicions that it may be a calculated move to sway elderly voters in favor of Swapo.

While the older population is seen as more reliable at the polls, the youth of Namibia, comprising a significant portion of the population, is often characterized as less engaged in the electoral process. The president’s promise to boost the old age grant is seemingly aimed at capitalizing on the voting patterns observed on election day, where older individuals are more diligent in casting their votes compared to the youth.

Despite the assurance of an increased old age grant, concerns are raised about Swapo’s commitment to broadening social grants or introducing a universal basic income. Doubts persist that, if Swapo retains power, the existing grants, including the old age grant, may remain unchanged without an expansion of coverage through a universal basic income.

Honorable Doreen Sioka’s announcement of the Harambe cash grant, initially presented as a universal basic income, has faced criticism for not meeting the criteria of universality. The confusion surrounding the nature of the grant has raised questions about its true intent and the extent of its coverage.

With Namibia grappling with a high youth unemployment rate, there is a perception that promises like the Harambe cash grant are attempts to appeal to the struggling youth for electoral support. Critics argue that these promises may be empty and not genuinely intended to address the pressing issues faced by the youth.

Efforts to seek clarification on the announced grants have been met with silence, further raising doubts about the transparency and legitimacy of these promises. The lack of response from relevant authorities adds to the skepticism regarding the actual implementation and budgetary provisions for the proposed grants.

While the government is applauded for increasing old age, child, and disability grants, criticism arises due to the exclusion of many from social grant coverage. The prevailing high unemployment rate in Namibia prompts questions about the feasibility of urging people to create their own opportunities without adequate resources.

Advocacy for a universal basic income grant gains momentum, with a call for the youth to demand comprehensive coverage. Addressing economic disparities becomes a priority, emphasizing the need for equal distribution of resources and opportunities.

As the elections approach, the youth are urged to make informed choices, vote wisely, and support political parties with clear strategies for job creation and economic improvement. The responsibility of the state to support the nation during this economic emergency is highlighted, emphasizing the need for collective action to address the challenges faced by the Namibian population.”