The Cabinet appointments by Her Excellency Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah stand out prominently. These appointments are grounded in meritocracy and driven by a genuine desire for competency-based outcomes.
Additionally, there is an understanding that competency will lead to tomorrow’s leaders, emphasising that the time for authentic action, real commitment to our people, and diligence in our tasks is now, not later. However, among the appointments, one stands out above the rest: that of Honourable Fillemon Wise Immanuel, popularly known as “The Wise Immanuel- Reforming by Reasoning.” “Cde Inspiration” or “Omumbuga eshi okulesha”, within youthful circles.
The Wise Immanuel pioneered and inspired the student revolution and activism. A valiant youth hustler, Wise distinguished himself and swam against the tide to become a formidable student leader and activist in the mid-2000s alongside his peers such as the late Shali Iintamba, the late Chris Hawala, the late Hileni Shikwambi, Neville Andre, Pamela Naashaa, Ezra Shilongo, Ezra Katenda, Tylvas Amunyela, Kondjeni Ntinda, Moses Moses, Kadiva Hamutumwa, Frieda Ngula, Kenneth Ndjambula, Dan Kamati, Johanness Sheya, Inocencio Verde, Archie Shipanga, Carl Pesat, and Metumo yaShilongo, among many others.
The Wise Immanuel exemplifies a radical, yet tactical voice in modern student and youth activism. He inspired, mentored, and groomed many young people who today occupy positions of influence thanks to Wise Immanuel.
While a student at the University of Namibia, where he served as the 2006/2007 president of the Students Representative Council, Wise sought radical reform within the university’s systems. He courageously led and sustained a two-week demonstration against the introduction of compulsory breakfast for hostel students.
His courage and conviction ignited a passion in the likes of Archie Shipanga, who joined the protest despite not being a hostel student. The Wise Immanuel also led other demonstrations in national interest, such as the protest against the submission by Phil yaNangolo for the Founding Father to be tried at the International Criminal Court of Justice; several protests against the hiking of fees and poor student services, as well as against gender-based violence.
Soon after graduating, The Wise Immanuel briefly served the Khomas Regional Council as a Regional Development Planner. He then returned to the University of Namibia as the Head of Student Leadership Development and Support Services.
In this role, “Omumbuga eshi okulesha” embarked on an intentional journey to identify students with talents and guide them toward opportunities for self-discovery, self-conceptualisation, and self-actualisation, ultimately excelling at creating a propelling environment for every young student leader with potential to emerge.
He is passionate about the leadership development of young people and their growth in general. Wise is a skilful and tactful influencer who believes in the power of networking.
At the University of Namibia, he created opportunities for mentorship, training, and exposure for student leaders with external partners. For instance, myself, Cde John Pinto, and the late Jakob Hamutenya, among others, are products of the Friedrich Ebert Foundation leadership programme led by Wise Immanuel. These are some of the impactful young leaders who have had the privilege to drink from his cup of wisdom, inspiration, and admiration; thus, they hold him in high regard. The Wise Immanuel, a good listener with a commanding voice and unparalleled counsel, never misses a chance to teach young leaders about the importance of financial prudence and adherence to due process. The modern corps of promising and fearless young leaders, such as those mentioned above, have emerged from his tutelage.
Known for his popular phrase, “Before we are any things that separate and divide us, above all and through all, we must be one Nation.”
Let us rise to the occasion and embrace the challenges, liberating ourselves by committing to the task at hand. The appointment of this remarkable youth activist and notable legal mind not only represents a victory for young people but also strengthens their voice. This underscores the pressing need to transform key institutions of our democracy, including the Judiciary and the discriminatory labour practices affecting major sectors of our economy. His inclusion in Parliament signals what I call a commander joining his lieutenants on the front lines, reconnecting with his leader, Dr. Elijah Ngurare.
As Wise joins his fellow youthful visionaries and patriotic lawmakers, reviving fond memories of camaraderie from the trenches of student and youth politics, we can expect significant political excitement. It was Dr. Elijah Ngurare who appointed Wise Immanuel as the National Assistant Secretary for Information and Mobilisation, serving under the former secretary, Clinton Swartbooi, during the years 2010 to 2012.
Additionally, those knowledgeable about history will remember that it was Wise Immanuel who initiated the 12 May Movement, established to celebrate the birthday of our beloved departed Founding Father, Dr. Sam Nujoma, under the guidance and counsel of Dr. Elijah Ngurare. He first held the celebration at the University of Namibia in 2007 and proposed its adoption by the SPYL leadership.
Many lawmakers in the 8th Parliament understand what their constituents want and have the courage to act accordingly. It is important to remember that the youth are no longer gatekeepers or spectators; they possess the power to collectively legislate and address the challenges, obstacles and stumbling blocks hindering service delivery aimed at alleviating our people from poverty and other social issues.
Victory is indeed certain.