Namibian MPs Condemn Directive to Use Public Health Facilities

Former members of parliament have criticised a new directive requiring public servants to use the public healthcare system, citing constitutional concerns.

The backlash followed negotiations over full government coverage of Public Service Employee Medical Aid Scheme fees. This follows President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah's directive that all public servants and senior officials should use state health facilities as of 1 April. The announcement has since caused heated debate about the infringement of rights by some MPs, who are questioning the readiness of public health facilities. Health minister Esperance Luvindao told parliamentarians they would not be forced to comply and could opt out.

Former MPs, including Calle Schlettwein, Apius !Auchab and Nahas Angula criticised the directive as unlawful, premature, and inhumane, questioning the government's capacity to provide adequate healthcare. Ester Haikola-Sakaria added that while her party supported using public hospitals, the state was not ready, stressing the need to prioritise healthcare and education.