Desert FM 95.3

by Desert FM 95.3

Democracy institute weighs in on yesterday's elections

Thousands of Namibians went to the polls yesterday for the 2025 regional council and local authority elections. Some voters expressed frustration with broken promises and demand more accountability from councillors. To assess how voting day unfolded and discuss its national significance, Desert FM speaks to the executive director of the Namibia Institute of Democracy, Naita Hishoono.

How to choose the right candidates in Namibia’s elections

Local elections determine who will manage essential services such as water, sanitation, land allocation, housing, economic development and the everyday functions that shape our quality of life. But with numerous candidates and parties competing for votes, how can citizens identify leaders who are truly capable of delivering beyond campaign-season promises? Human rights activist Pauline Dempers speaks to Desert FM to unpack the qualities, track records and values voters should look for, offering guidance on what informed, community-focused decision-making should look like at the grassroots level.

Youth participation in focus as Namibia heads to local elections

With the regional council and local authority elections just a day away, the attention shifts to Namibia’s young people, who are said to not be interested in politics. What will it take to strengthen youth participation in our democracy? Member of parliament and youth leader Sharonice Busch shares insights from her journey from the National Youth Council to the parliament, explaining why local elections matter, how young people can hold leaders accountable, and what first-time voters should know before they cast their vote.

What Namibians should expect from those they elect

Namibia’s governance system gives significant authority to local and regional leaders on issues ranging from delivering water and sanitation services to managing land, driving development and representing communities at government level. Many citizens, however, remain unclear about what these officials are mandated to do and how they can be held accountable. Lawyer Henry Shimutwikeni speaks to Desert FM to explain what communities should expect from their leaders.

No clarity on free education policy

The government has committed to fully subsidising registration and tuition fees at public universities and technical colleges starting in 2026. It has allocated N$663 million for the first quarter of 2026 to fund this roll-out. The national task force on implementing this policy has, however, not fully communicated how this would work, leaving lecturers and students worried as the new academic year looms. Desert FM speaks to Teachers’ Union of Namibia secretary general Mahongora Kavihua for more.

Bernadus Swartbooi reportedly assaulted at Keetmanshoop

Landless People’s Movement leader Bernadus Swartbooi was allegedly assaulted by former LPM member Vernon Colman at Keetmanshoop yesterday. Colman is currently running as an independent candidate. Desert FM speaks to political analyst Sakaria Johannes on the incident.

Youth urged to vote

Tomorrow, Namibians will head to the polls for the regional council and local authority elections, but youth participation remains a concern. Desert FM speaks to After Break Magazine founder Rejoice Amutenya on the role of young people in shaping Namibia’s democracy.

Paulus Hawanga on managing parents’ expectations around free tertiary education.

The National Organization of Parents in Education interim president urges clearer communication, proper consultation, and realistic planning as parents await details on the 2026 free tertiary education rollout.

Commissioner Ishmael Basson on the impact of the magistrates’ nationwide strike

Omusati Police Commander Ishmael Basson breaks down how the magistrates’ full-scale strike is halting court operations, affecting bail hearings, piling pressure on police cells, and disrupting justice services across the region.

Bernard Kavau on the road to free tertiary education

Students Union of Namibia board chair Bernard Kavau warns current funding falls short for tuition and non-tuition costs, urging equitable access for all students.

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