Windhoek: Newly appointed Vice-Chairperson of the National Council, Emma Tangi Muteka, has pledged to strengthen legislative oversight and reposition the Council as a people-centred institution that responds directly to the needs of communities across the country. In an interview with Nampa, Muteka, who is also serving her second term as councillor for the Windhoek West Constituency, said her role would go beyond supporting the Chairperson to ensuring that legislation and Council resolutions translate into tangible improvements in the lives of Namibians.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Muteka envisions herself as a custodian of the people's trust and a catalyst for legislative excellence. She emphasized that the National Council should not only review laws but also ensure that every piece of legislation reflects the lived realities of citizens. Her tenure will focus on legislative modernisation and impact oversight, aiming for a shift from procedural compliance to outcome-based governance. This approach is intended to lead to improved infrastructure, service delivery, and economic opportunities, especially in underserved regions.
Muteka also expressed her commitment to strengthening the analytical and oversight capacity of councillors through training programs designed to promote data-driven decision-making and active engagement with constituencies. On the topic of leadership continuity, she stressed the importance of stability and ethical governance. Her approach will be to preserve institutional memory while fostering innovation and forward-thinking strategies within the Council.
To enhance public engagement, Muteka plans to advocate for a 'People's Parliament' approach. This includes utilizing digital platforms, social media, and community town hall meetings to improve communication between the Council and the public. She aims to break down the perception of Parliament as an inaccessible institution and encourage citizens to actively participate in shaping policies that impact their lives.
Inclusivity is another central pillar of her leadership, with a focus on ensuring that youth, women, people with disabilities, and marginalised communities are prominently featured in legislative priorities and budget considerations. Muteka aspires for her tenure to be remembered as a period during which the National Council became more accessible, transparent, and effective in delivering meaningful change for citizens.