In recent years, political parties worldwide have recognised the growing urgency for sustainable development, particularly in response to the climate crisis.
In Namibia, as in other democratic nations, politicians have adapted their ideologies to align with sustainable practices, which promise tangible benefits to citizens.
However, while the discourse on sustainability is a welcome change, another trend in Namibian politics requires closer scrutiny, as well as youth and women’s inclusivity in governance.
Although this inclusivity is essential for fostering equitable representation, it is increasingly evident that political parties may be using the youth – not as true leaders, but as tools to gain electoral support.
This approach, often devoid of genuine concern for young people’s long-term careers, has significant consequences, especially for inexperienced leaders who are thrust into high-ranking political roles. The political culture in Namibia is increasingly one where youth and women are visibly promoted as symbols of inclusivity.
Political parties appoint young, enthusiastic leaders to parliamentary positions to demonstrate diversity and progressiveness.
On the surface, this appears to be a noble cause, bringing fresh perspectives, and ensuring that the voices of youth are heard at the national level.
However, the reality for many young people who step into these roles is far more complex and precarious.
By thrusting inexperienced individuals into parliament without allowing them to nurture their careers and gain experience, political parties may be doing more harm than good.
For young leaders, the transition from an ordinary citizen to a member of parliament (MP) is often overwhelming.
Having leapt over crucial intermediate steps in their career development, they face the challenge of navigating the complexities of politics without the foundation necessary to succeed. This is problematic for two main reasons. Firstly, youth who are appointed to these senior roles often lack the experience to fully understand or influence the policies they are tasked with shaping.
As a result, they may struggle to represent the interests of their constituents effectively, leading to a weakened democratic process.
Secondly, the abrupt elevation to such high positions leaves these young leaders vulnerable, especially when the political winds shift.
Namibian politics, like those of many other democratic countries, is unpredictable.
Political parties may lose seats in the National Assembly due to shifts in voter sentiment, leaving young MPs at risk of losing their positions.
For many, there is no clear path back into politics or other professional fields after their parliamentary careers end.
Those who lose their seats may likely find themselves in a precarious position, having to move from being an MP to an entry-level job – if they can secure one at all.
This dramatic fall from grace highlights the fragility of their careers, which have not been given the chance to build the necessary traction for long-term success.
The danger in this approach to youth inclusivity lies in the exploitation of young people’s ambitions.
The desire for elevation is strong among the youth, who rightly wish to take part in shaping the future of their country.
However, this ambition is being taken advantage of by political parties that prioritise demonstrating inclusivity for the sake of optics rather than for the genuine empowerment of the youth.
Nevertheless, it is imperative for the youth to also learn how to examine opportunities being presented to them, and weigh the possible impact they may have on their future ambitions.
Clearly, one cannot base prospects on a temporal political appointment that can shift with voters’ choices at any given election time.
*Shepherd M Nyambe is Namibia’s youngest published researcher, award-winning Sustainable Development Goals’ action advocate and political science scholar. The views shared are not a reflection of author’s affiliations. He can be reached on Shepherdmn01@gmail.com