Fear limits freedom – ombudsman

The ombudsman, advocate Basilius Dyakugha, warns that many Namibians are still motivated by fear despite the country’s democratic gains since independence. Speaking during the launch of the African Media Barometer in Windhoek yesterday, Dyakugha said freedom from fear should become a central focus in strengthening democracy and human rights in Namibia. “If you take fear away from anybody, that person’s life will really be celebrated in all aspects, but once you operate from a place of fear, you cannot enjoy life or economic activities,” he said.

The African Media Barometer report revealed a decline in Namibia’s media environment score from 3.1 in 2022 to 2.8 reported this year. It outlines that while legal frameworks remain constitutionally secure, critical gaps persist, including the non-commencement of the Access to Information Act. Dyakugha said people should be able to participate freely in economic activities, labour matters and other aspects of public life without intimidation or apprehension.