Parliamentary committees need more authority to ensure accountability

While these grassroots visits are commendable, there is a concern that parliamentary committees lack sufficient authority. For example, parliamentarians accused senior leaders at Rundu Town Council of failing to attend a meeting in January, and this week, the chief executive of the same council could not answer relevant questions. This behavior suggests a disrespect for lawmakers and the public they represent.

The article argues that oversight committees should be empowered to take action against officials who neglect their duties. Without such enforcement, these visits, which are costly to taxpayers, may be perceived as mere political posturing rather than effective oversight, leading to reports with non-binding recommendations and a lack of real impact.