SECTOR 1 1.2 The right to freedom of expression is practised and citizens, including journalists, are asserting their rights without fear. Analysis: Freedom of expression is dependent upon the way ideals, such as democracy, are exercised in society. Since President Hifikepunye Pohamba took over from Sam Nujoma in 2004, the political climate appeared to ease somewhat, and citizens seemed to feel more confident to speak out. However, with the recent emergence of new political parties, evident divisions within the ruling South West Africa People’s Organisation (SWAPO) and the upcoming elections in November 2009, people do not appear to be so eager to express themselves anymore. This fear of speaking out is also partly related to traditional values of not criticising elders. “The behaviour of people shows that democracy is not deeply entrenched in Namibian society. People’s voices are being silenced. Especially in rural areas, people are not able to express themselves freely. Opposition party members are spoken of in derogatory terms. There is no tolerance, and such an environment is not good for freedom of expression.” The fear to express oneself in rural areas seemed greater than in urban areas, because of the inequitable distribution of resources in Namibia and the vulnerability of poorer people for whom basic needs, such as food, housing and water, often override more idealistic concerns. “It is a fact that if you are a member of a party other than SWAPO, and you criticise government, you will be denied access to services.” Incidents were mentioned of wives in rural areas being assaulted by their husbands because they held different political views; of people being denied drought aid because they belonged to political parties other than the governing SWAPO or expressed views that did not conform to the status quo. “The behaviour of people shows that democracy is not deeply entrenched in Namibian society...” Chat shows play a crucial role in Namibia and are of huge importance in all language services of the stateowned Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) for members of the public to comment on all spheres of life. The suspension of a morning chat show on the NBC’s English national radio service in March 2009 caused a public outcry. Some panellists felt that this action was clearly an attempt by government to suppress opposition voices, although NBC management reportedly said it was done because the service was being “abused” and people were being insulted on air. The show, commonly referred to as the ‘People’s Parliament’, has now been curtailed: limited to certain topics or no 12 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER NAMIBIA 2009