IPC wants stateless citizens assisted

The Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) has urged government to come to the assistance of stateless citizens, saying they deserve to benefit from the country’s social safety nets.

“The IPC, in its continuous efforts of engaging stakeholders in the governance of our country, has actively engaged the ministry of home affairs, immigration, safety and security, advocating for the provision of necessary documentation to qualifying stateless persons. These individuals, having contributed to the economic and social fabric of the nation, deserve the opportunity to access social grants and enjoy a dignified life in the only home many of them have known,” it said.

The party added that the onus was on the ministry to speedily attend to Namibia’s stateless persons to ensure that they are registered.

Cabinet last month directed the ministry to intensify the issuance of national documents to stateless persons in order for them to qualify for social grants.

“We are appreciative of the Cabinet decision, having formed part of its initiation. We call on the ministry of home affairs to implement the decision expediently and to ensure that those who are most affected are prioritised,” the party said.