Developing A Democracy

Developing A Democracy

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Developing A Democracy

Namibia is considered an excellent example of decolonization and a prosperous transitory state to political power. Namibia transitioned to democracy with an elected constituent from minority settler administration remotely controlled by Pretoria. Under the UN influence, Namibia formed its government in 1989-1990 without any serious problems or bloodshed. The transition to democracy ended the struggle of SWAPO of Namibia (South West African People's Organization) for an independent state. The newly elected constituent assembly after the colonization period in 1989 appointed Sam Nujoma as the first Head of the Sovereign Namibian state, proclaimed on the country's Independence Day, March 21, 1990. SWAPO secured most of the seats and was established as a dominant party. SWAPO is an official and controlling party of the state which is turning into hegemony (Melber, Kromrey & Welz, 2016). Though Namibia is ranked among top performers of the continent concerning good governance, with such a dominant party, how democratic is the country is a key question.

Majority of Namibia's public are confident in their ruling party and its candidates even though they hold most of the executive power. Since 2015, the country's political landscape is said to be consolidated hegemony. Despite many objections from the thirteen rival parties of the country, the Head of the state that is from SWAPO remains to rule with unlimited executive powers. SWAPO has turned into a total hegemony which according to some cannot be described as democracy. SWAPO is said to be an authoritarian party along with democratic features as Namibia abundantly holds the legal permissions of a democratic government. However, numerous difficulties are threatening Namibia's demonstrative democracy. The primary issue is the non-existent division between the Legislature and Executive. It is almost certain with such representativeness that whatsoever decision is made in the Cabinet, it will be applicable because of one party authority and strength. This is said to be a clear threat to the democratic system, and therefore, in my opinion, direct democracy would be a better alternative for such a country. Direct democracy will allow the citizens to vote for the desired policy without any intermediary legislatures or houses of parliament. If the regime wants to pass a specific policy or law, it will seek people's say and so people can decide their fate (Matsusaka, 2005).

References

Matsusaka, J. G. (2005). Direct democracy works. Journal of Economic Perspectives, 19(2), 185-206.

Melber, H., Kromrey, D., & Welz, M. (2016). Changing of the guard? An anatomy of power within SWAPO of Namibia. African Affairs, 116(463), 284-310.