Namibia: A Young Democracy | (2023)

Freedom was never easy. It is because of the sacrifice of our freedom fighters, who never gave up on it. Namibia is a constitutional democracy that was recently liberated from long periods of brutal colonial rule.

Based on its political, economic, and human resource management systems, it is fair to say that it is a young country. It is a growing country that is learning to embrace the vast majority of its privileges and freedoms.

The question now is, how can Namibia preserve its economic, political, social, and environmental treasures while recognizing the "power of professionalism"? This is to say, how can leaders distribute this wealth throughout the country to its people without allowing the demon of corruption to infiltrate and jeopardize decisions?

We can all agree that corruption is caused by several factors, including stringent laws and policies imposed on citizens and, in some cases, the country's political history.

Even if it is motivating in retrospect, comparing Namibia to countries that have long understood political independence is not judicial. Due to its recent oil discoveries and green hydrogen initiative, Namibia has made several headlines around the world. It is only now that Namibia will experience a greater economic shift (for the first time since independence in 1990).

In my opinion, corruption and other unethical decisions penetrate deep into the core of unprofessionalism. We can all agree that corruption is caused by a variety of factors, including stringent laws and policies imposed on the country's citizens and, in some cases, the country's political background.

Firstly, when civil servants are underpaid, this is one of the main reasons why government officials take the opportunity to put as much money into their own pockets as they can for their personal use. As a result, the citizen's right to receive quality service delivery is forfeited.

At the same time, when "corrupt officials" conceal capital for their own gain, the country suffers, hampering infrastructural growth and economic development.

Everyone, as citizens of the brave nation, should undoubtedly benefit from the justice system. However, government employees are afforded greater protection than the average citizen. Although it takes a lot of effort to enter the public sector, it is well worth it once you do.

As a result, it is not unreasonable to demand efficient service delivery, accept responsibility for societal changes, mitigate harm, and prioritize public needs.

According to research, a person's moral behavior and decision-making can be traced back to their family background, education, culture, social norms, or religion. Every person wishes to provide a better future for themselves and their loved ones. Every educated parent desire to send their children to a school or college where they will receive the education they deserve.

To reduce the increasing acts of corruption that must be addressed, we must eliminate poverty. It will be exciting to hear the government say, "We'll do this," and then see it done. Individual rights must be protected, and services must be distributed judiciously to all Namibians, regardless of job position.

The mental aspect of having the same rights and opportunities as everyone else causes and will continue to cause people to act ethically towards one another and in all "financial businesses" of the country, avoiding the temptation to take advantage of small opportunities to steal and embezzle.

"The constitution does not guarantee happiness, only the pursuit of it." -Benjamin Franklin. Legislators should consider what is best for the country. To keep up with the developed world, we must examine our weaknesses and gradually transform them into strengths. Lawmakers should strive for flexible laws and policies that support Namibia's governing structure while also being fair to all citizens.

Individuality must be emphasized in more than just political campaigns and elections. I implore leaders and officials to take the bold step of meeting every Namibian citizen wherever they may be. It is the responsibility of leaders to change the thoughts and perceptions of all individuals.

These small hinges have the power to swing open the big doors of drastic change in Namibia's political and societal aspects, as well as to end corruption. The state must impose severe penalties to ensure that every civil servant performs their duties to the best of their abilities.

Finally, bribing court officials to obtain favorable verdicts; blackmailing colleagues to cover up any unethical behavior within the organization; circumventing laws for selfish gain; nepotism; and sneaking family members into positions for which they are not qualified are all examples of unethical behavior. These acts of corruption undermine the country's professional structure.