Noreen Sitali
The two Houses of Parliament of Namibia, the National Assembly and the National Council, jointly launched their vehicle registrations plates on Tuesday.
Speaker of the National Assembly, Professor Peter Katjavivi highlighted that this change not only aligns the institution with other key organs of the State, but also reflects parliament’s commitment to modernisation and efficiency.
“By adopting these standardised registration marks, we streamline the identification processes, and reinforce our dedication to transparency and accountability in our operations,” he said during the unveiling ceremony.
Furthermore, Katjavivi noted that the initiative harmonises with the institution’s strategic vision for the establishment of a Parliamentary Service Commission through the agenda for change for both the National Assembly and the National Council.
“This further enhances the professionalism and effectiveness of our legislative functions. It underscores our continuous efforts to adapt to evolving needs and best practices, ensuring that we remain responsive to our mandate of oversight,” he stressed.
The parliamentary fleet will be easily identifiable by a green vehicle registration plate displaying the abbreviations LNA for Legislature National Assembly and LNC for Legislature National Council.
This initiative, similar to other State organs, is a commendable gesture that not only distinguishes the legislature’s vehicles, but also underscores the significance of the separation of powers among the three organs of the State.
As the legislative branch of the State, Parliament has the exclusive responsibility of overseeing the Executive’s activities. With the introduction of these distinctive number plates, the public will now be able to readily identify vehicles belonging to Parliament.
Only official vehicles of the two houses of Parliament will bear these unique number plates. This is one of the ongoing reforms undertaken by Parliament in its endeavour to establish an independent Parliamentary Service Commission.
*Noreen Sitali works at the National Assembly under the directorate of Research, Information, Publications and Editorial Services.