ADM to tear up laws delaying resource benefits

Action Democratic Movement (ADM) interim president Vinsent Kanyetu claims the country’s real problem lies not with its government or its people, but with outdated laws that hinder citizens from fully benefitting from the nation's resources.Speaking at a recent press conference in Rundu, Kanyetu highlighted the need for legislative reform, specifically targeting laws dating back to the early years of the country's independence."If elected into power, we will amend the so-called untouchable laws that have been in place since 1990 – laws that prevent Namibians from reaping the full benefits of their resources, whether it be minerals or others,” Kanyetu said.“The constitution, specifically Article 100, states that mineral resources belong to us, the Namibian people. But now, with the recent discoveries – whether it's oil, gas, petrol, or diesel – what do we hear? One head of state says 'it belongs to us', while another says, 'it doesn’t'. What does that mean? It shows inconsistency among those running the administration.”He also commented on foreign companies working in Namibia. “There are laws that allow companies like De Beers to take more than 50% of the income from our diamonds," he claimed."Why are we only getting 10%? Just 10% off our diamonds! Why? There's a law that empowers these so-called investors. To assert our strength, we need to get rid of these laws and learn from the best examples. Look at our brothers in Botswana. They used to get less, just like us, but now they receive 50% from their diamonds,” he said.He further outlined the party's mission to complete the unfinished business of the liberation struggle.“We are here to ensure that we achieve a two-thirds majority in this election to bring about the necessary changes. It’s a shame that with all our diamonds, children are still being taught in iron-sheet classrooms. This is not what we envisioned after independence,” he said.Reforms neededKanyetu also spoke on the need for eliminating shacks and improving healthcare.“We must ensure that the hospitals whose medicine shelves are empty are fully stocked because we have the resources to take care of ourselves," he said.He added: "And in the next 10 years, there will be no need for embassies in Namibia, because every Namibian will live in a well-built brick house with a proper roof over their head. We cannot continue to be an embassy republic."With a population of only three million, Kanyetu believes the country is capable of significant reform. “That’s why we, as the Action Democratic Movement, have already started taking action. We are moving forward, and all will be well if Namibians vote for us," he said. Kanyetu also announced that the ADM has selected Erastus Shuumbwa as its presidential candidate for the upcoming national elections.nikanor@erongo.com.na

ADM to tear up laws delaying resource benefits

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-04

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ADM to tear up laws delaying resource benefits

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-04

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