Desert FM 95.3

The ongoing nationwide magistrates’ strike continues with no clear end in sight.

Justice and labour relations minister Wise Immanuel has declared the strike illegal.

The magistrates’ lawyer, Florian Beukes, argues that only a court of law can determine the legality of the strike and insists that negotiations with the government are still underway. He tells Desert FM more.

Miss Namibia Johanna Swartbooi’s appearance at the Miss Universe competition resulted in social media division, with some making comments around representation and her appearance. 

Former Miss Namibia Chelsi Shikongo has publicly defended Johanna and speaks to Desert FM on what representation means for a Miss Namibia and how appearance-based attacks harm individuals.

Landless People’s Movement spokesperson Lifalaza Simataa calls the ruling a win for justice, highlighting the need for stronger anti-corruption measures, whistleblower protection, and closing legal loopholes in Namibia’s local government.

National exam markers in Namibia say low pay, delayed allowances, and long working hours are affecting their work. Community activist Nghipundilo YaShindii warns this could compromise the accuracy of national assessments. She urges the Ministry of Education to pay allowances on time, provide meals and accommodation, and recognize markers as essential workers.

The Khomas Residents & Rate Payers Association has made headlines after the Electoral Court declined to hear its case challenging alleged irregularities by the Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN). The ruling raises questions about transparency and accountability in the electoral process. Desert FM spoke to association representative Shaun Gariseb to unpack the court’s decision and what it means going forward.

As Namibia heads to local and regional elections on 26 November, youth participation remains low despite young people making up a large share of voters. Youth activist Armando Pieters says high unemployment, limited opportunities, and performative politics discourage young voters. He urges political leaders to engage communities year-round and calls on young Namibians to use their vote to push for policies that address their needs.

Nearly 200 countries are meeting from Monday until 21 November for a crucial United Nations climate summit, marking 10 years since the Paris Agreement.While major powers highlight emission cuts, the focus now shifts to what meaningful climate action means for nations like Namibia.

Desert FM spoke to Windhoek-based climate activist Jakapita Kandanga for insights.

As the government prepares to implement its free higher education policy, Namibia’s public universities are crunching the numbers. The Namibia University of Science and Technology (Nust) says it would need about N$626 million to offer free tuition next year, factoring in enrolment growth and inflation.Combined with the University of Namibia's shortfall, the government may need over N$1.4 billion to fully subsidise tuition and registration fees.

Desert FM spoke to Nust spokesperson Nashilongo Gervasius to unpack what this means for students and institutions.

The minister of justice and labour relations, Wise Immanuel, has declared the ongoing magistrates’ strike as illegal, warning that no one is above the law.

To unpack the tensions behind this standoff, Desert FM speaks to Trade Union Congress of Namibia deputy secretary general  Ndjizuvee Haakuria.

South African president Cyril Ramaphosa has taken over as interim chair of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), after Madagascar stepped down amid political turmoil.

The decision was made during an extraordinary virtual summit of SADC heads of state on Friday.

To unpack what this means for the region, SADC’s strength and Namibia’s position within it, Desert FM speaks to international relations expert Pius Dunaiski.