Talks between President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah and the Swanu of Namibia Party focused on several national issues, including the N$100 increase in the old age pension announced in the recent national budget, during today's courtesy meeting at State House.

The N$100 increase in the old-age pension announced in the national budget was met with criticism by some political parties.

Swanu, however, says after discussions with the President, the party understands the government's decision.

Party President Evilastus Kaaronda said the discussions were also aimed at aligning with the president's agenda and exchanging ideas, particularly on employment creation, economic development, education and addressing shortcomings in the land redistribution programme.

Kaaronda made the remarks during a courtesy meeting with the president as part of ongoing engagements with political parties, which he says speaks to the democratic architecture in the country.

"It's also an opportunity, of course, for us to hear from the head of state exactly what it is that is on their menu. Developmental, political, social, you know. And also, of course, for them to hear what our take is on a number of issues as well that are of concern to our people."

President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah reiterated her commitment to engaging with political parties on matters of national concern.

"For consultation and exchange between the Office of the President and the political parties in the National Assembly. Of course, it might have taken long on your side, but some I met last year. But understandably, last year was very busy. As all of us were busy with the regional and local authority election campaign. But it's good that we are finding time in the first half of the year to do this consultation. Karonda noted that it is imperative."

Kaaronda noted that it is imperative to engage with the president in order to address issues effectively and collectively tackle the challenges affecting citizens.