WINDHOEK– On Sunday Namibia observed 24 years after the adoption of its Constitution in 1990. Youth Corner’s Sabina Elago went on the streets of Windhoek to gauge the youths’ awareness and understanding of the Constitution.
Natangwe Angula (25) Teacher: “The Constitution is the most important document in the life of the nation. Society is always active not standing. It is no surprise therefore that the Constitution as society’s bedrock, is referred to as a living document. The Constitution must address the needs of society at the time, and yet be flexible enough to develop with society. It being a lifeless thing it must be given life and meaning by us all.”
Selma Hofenie (33) Law student : “The constitution is a set of laws and principles that guides and govern us as a society. It helps us to be organized as citizens. I read the constitution now and then because my profession requires me to do so. It means a lot to me as a youth because I should do what is expected of me, what I should do and not, what my rights and responsibilities are and very important know what I am entitled as the citizen of this democratic state. It makes me feel that I belong here and I should be a responsible citizen.”
Timoteus Amon (26) Administrator at Ministry of Safety and Security: WINDHOEK- The constitution is a fundamental principle established according to which a state or any other organization is governed. “I think the constitution is a good fundamental governing rule for our country where the nation is, must and will stick to. Constitutions have chapters and articles which specify what is wrong and right about the acts against and towards the nation. It also allows people to obey, execute and administer the law of the nation at stipulate therefore.” The Constitution means “we must promote dignity, unity, integrity and right of individuals equally in our nation. We must be law abiding citizens and do what is right.”
Stefan Shidolo (25) 3rd Year Student at Polytechnic of Namibia: “I am aware of the constitution but all I know is that it is a law. It is the most important provision in the constitution is the Human right. It is good to know that I have the right to anything in my country. The constitution means I have the protection from all the illegal activities, it’s my protector as a Namibian citizen.”
Brandom Van Wyk (21),Teller at Standard Bank: “I am aware of the Constitution but all I know is that it is a law. It is the most important provision in the Constitution is the Human Right. It is good to know that I have the right to anything in my country. The Constitution means I have the protection from all the illegal activities, it’s my protector as a Namibian citizen.”
Linus Ashimbuli (23) Unemployed: “Yes I know a bit about the Constitution, it is a cabinet thing. The Constitution is the control body that is running our country. It is good to have it, it makes us feel safe in the country.”