BIG issue needs attention, says APP

The All People's Party (APP) has urged the government to pay attention to the issue of a basic income grant (BIG) for Namibians.Speaking during the release of its parliamentary list for this year's elections, APP said BIG has the potential to uplift the living standards of many impoverished Namibians."Protests were held all over the country. People protested, especially over the BIG. I believe that parliament should pay attention to this, and if time permits, I will table a motion on the matter," party vice-president Linus Muchila, who was recently sworn in as a member of parliament, said.The party's newly elected president, Ambrosius Kumbwa, during a media conference highlighted various aspects of the party's election manifesto, which will be launched on 5 October in Rundu.It is said to tackle inadequate education infrastructure, overcrowded classrooms and the need for better governance by traditional leaders."We are committed to tackling the key issues that matter most to our communities," he said. He further revealed that the party is experiencing financial challenges."As far as the contribution of our people is concerned, it is really a challenge as the majority of them are extremely poor. We depend on little income from those who can contribute and also the quotas we get from the government," he explained.According to Kumbwa, APP intends to use its limited financial support for small businesses, funeral assistance and other initiatives for the well-being of the community.List of candidatesMeanwhile, APP's parliamentary list was announced last week. The list consists of 50 representatives - 30 men and 20 women from all 14 regions of the country. The majority of candidates - 16 - are from the Kavango East, followed by Erongo (six) and Khomas (five). The central coordination committee consists of 15 men and 15 women. Although the APP currently only has two seats in parliament, the party is hopeful that the new list will strengthen its representation in the National Assembly. Kumbwa praised the commitment of the newly appointed leadership, which includes Muchila, national chairperson Faustinus Wakudumo, deputy national chairperson Christianna Goases, secretary-general Venitus Marius Goraseb and deputy secretary-general Anastasia Mbathera.Media coverageKumbwa also expressed concern about the lack of media coverage on APP's fourth national congress, which took place from 2 to 4 August in Rundu. The congress reviewed amendments to the party's constitution, code of conduct and ethics policy and elected new leadership."This lack of coverage raises questions about the commitment to a balanced and fair media landscape. This is worrying," he said, stressing the importance of fair media representation during election campaigns."True support for a multi-party democracy requires more than just words. It calls for action and representation,” he added.

BIG issue needs attention, says APP

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-04

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BIG issue needs attention, says APP

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-04

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