Joel Hashipala

As we approach the national elections, many Namibians will be contemplating to which political party or independent candidates they will pledge their support because this year’s elections will be tightly contested between political parties and independent candidates. Political plurality exists in the political climate of Namibia.

Political manifestos serve as a guideline for the electorate, which wants to be more informed about the stance of political parties and candidates.

Manifestos play a crucial part in helping the electorate make informed decisions when they vote. 

Manifestos not only give us an insight into the policy direction of parties and candidates, but they can also be seen as a social contract. 

They advance a set of ideas by political parties as a plan of action when legitimately voted into power. Informed decisions can be made by electorates based on issues and values that matter most to them.

These manifestos help outline what the party and/or candidate promise to deliver if elected, creating a sense of accountability after the electoral process. 

This social contract between the political parties and candidates is very crucial to understand because it lays out the type of governance these prospective candidates have once voted into power.

Manifestos serve as a roadmap for governance by the political parties and candidates. 

By giving out a clear roadmap for them, this gives a sense of direction for how the country will be governed under their leadership. Furthermore, manifestos serve as a communication strategy for spreading a message during an election year.

This public declaration can help guide the electorate's views, which may help them align with the party or candidate that they feel serves their needs. 

Electorates usually align themselves with manifestos that resonate with them. 

Alignment ensures that their votes reflect their values and interests. 

The election year is tightly contested, hence the need for the Namibian electorate to get their hands on independent candidates or political party manifestos to understand the set of ideas they can align themselves with.

Manifestos can encourage electorates to be more politically aware as they promote discussions on bread and butter issues. Political manifestos also allow the electorate to hold elected officials accountable by ensuring they keep to their word. Political discourse is needed to allow more informed electorates during the electoral process.

As we approach the presidential and national elections, our choices will shape the future of our beloved nation. 

Every vote holds immense power to steer the direction of our country towards progress, development, and prosperity. 

The only way we, as Namibians, can get our voices heard is to engage in informed decision making. 

It is time to explore the political manifestos of the various parties and candidates because they will serve as roadmaps that outline their visions for Namibia.

Relying on rhetoric or hearsay should not be enough to convince any electorate; diving into these manifestos is very critical to understanding the stances of these candidates or political parties on crucial issues such as education, healthcare, the economy, and social welfare. 

Considerations should be made by the electorate to ensure they align themselves with the right political parties and independent candidates who are aligned with their values.

The average Namibian voter is not fully aware of their party’s manifesto.

Informed decisions not only empower electorates, but they also contribute to a much stronger and more accountable democracy. 

Let us Namibians be the drivers of change by choosing leaders who will serve and work tirelessly for the betterment of Namibians. Exercise your right to vote wisely by being an informed electorate. An informed electorate is the cornerstone of a healthy democracy.

*Joel Hashipala is a political analyst.