Children’s Parliament elects speaker, deputy

• By Allexer Namundjembo

Jane Phiri and Michael Ajiboso were elected speakers and deputy speakers of the sixth children’s parliament. The children’s parliamentary sessions commenced on the 15th. They will be going on until the 19th, and it aims to provide a platform for young people to voice their opinions, participate in decision-making processes, and influence policies that affect their lives and the well-being of children in the country.

Phiri, from the Hardap region, was elected speaker for the sixth session.  In her acceptance speech, Phiri said she would embrace the responsibility bestowed by her peers. “I will collaborate with fellow parliamentarians, and I vow to ensure that every child’s voice is heard, and issues are addressed.

“I am looking forward to improving Namibian children’s lives through tireless advocacy for their rights and well-being,” Phiri said.

Deputy speaker Michael Ajiboso, who is from the Kavango East region, expressed his profound honour at his appointment and pledged to embrace the responsibilities of his position.  “I am willing to collaborate with the speaker and fellow members of parliament and I am vowed to ensure that children’s voices are heard,” he said.

Phiri and Ajiboso both embody the spirit of youthful leadership and responsibility, and both are poised to guide the sixth session of the children’s parliament towards creating positive change and making a lasting impact in the community, Children’s parliament sessions start on Monday, and sessions will go on until Friday. Learners from different regions gather to share ideas and solve problems faced by children in the country.