Erasmus Shalihaxwe
Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) Member of Parliament Elvis Lizazi has criticised the continued exploitation of workers through labour hire companies, calling it a “lingering injustice” in an independent Namibia.
Speaking during his maiden parliamentary contribution on Wednesday, Lizazi said the issue should have been addressed long ago.
“Labour hire in Namibia should be a thing of the past but remains a daily reality,” said Lizazi, who also serves as IPC’s shadow minister of Justice and Labour Relations.
He referenced the landmark 2009 Supreme Court judgement that struck down a ban on labour hires, calling the Africa Personnel Services (APS) case a painful reminder of unresolved challenges.
“Even with our Labour Act and the recent introduction of a national minimum wage, enforcement is alarmingly weak,” he said.
Lizazi pointed out that the country currently has only 51 labour inspectors nationwide, a number he said is insufficient to ensure compliance.
“With such a thin inspectorate, abusive employers slip through the cracks. Many employers continue to ignore basic working conditions and minimum wage laws because the chance of a government inspection is slim,” he added.
Lizazi also addressed issues within the justice system, welcoming the government’s decision to raise the legal aid income threshold from N$5 000 to N$7 000 and the appointment of more legal aid counsel.
However, he expressed concern over the persistent backlog of cases in Namibia’s courts.
“Our courts face crippling backlogs and delays. Magistrates’ court dockets are overflowing, and thousands of cases remain unheard or unfinished. Some cases have stretched for several years,” said Lizazi.
He noted that criminal trials are particularly affected, with many accused persons held in custody for extended periods without trial.
According to Lizazi, the delays are partly due to a shortage of judicial officers and court resources.
He cited remote magistrate circuits that sit only once a month, leaving legal matters unresolved for long periods.
He concluded by emphasising the role of Parliament in holding the executive accountable.
“The legislative arm must ensure that the executive delivers on its priorities. I will not remain silent if budgets meant to uplift the vulnerable are misdirected,” he said.
