PDM Leader McHenry Venaani has described President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s first 100 days in office as a period of “rhetoric over results.”
Speaking at a media conference, Venaani claimed the President’s much-publicized “business unusual” approach has resulted in political stagnation.
“So we are saying what we are seeing now is the kindness. The first 100 days were good in terms of kindness, but have not changed the face of Namibians. Have not addressed the suffering of a young man in Ombwa Yalyata Otina or a young man in Epukiro, a sister in Kharasburg. Good intentions must be matched with policies. We want to see the first 100 days attract policies,” said Venaani.
He criticised the pace of economic reforms, the handling of youth unemployment, and Namibia’s reclassification to lower-middle-income status. When President Nandi-Ndaitwah assumed office, her administration pledged targeted support through financing, training, and mentorship programmes to curb youth unemployment, with some efforts already underway.
Venaani also dismissed the Green Hydrogen and economic dialogue platforms as still theoretical. He raised concern about the elderly pension grant not being increased this year.
The Ministry of Finance has since pointed to budgetary priorities such as youth development, food production, and drought relief as reasons for maintaining the current pension grant. The old-age pension currently stands at N$1,600, up from N$600 in 2015.
Venaani further demanded financial transparency from August 26 Holdings and accused the President of ignoring past corruption cases.
“The President promises zero tolerance, yet suspicious tenders—especially in the health sector—are going unchecked. Patronage politics, Fishrot, and now new rot at NAMCOR,” he said.
He called for investment in agriculture through desalination and urged stronger action on housing, sanitation, and land reform, stating that government efforts remain inadequate and citizens must demand tangible results.
Responding to the remarks, State House Press Secretary Dr Alfredo Hengari dismissed Venaani’s claims as baseless political statements.
Hengari said Namibians are witnessing the tangible actions of President Nandi-Ndaitwah’s administration across all sectors of the economy. He added that the President is expected to address the nation next week on her 100 days in office, where she will respond to some of the issues raised.