Ester Mbathera
Former cabinet minister Tom Alweendo, who did not return to the new executive, has thanked the nation for the support he received.
Alweendo, who served as Minister of Mines and Energy, said his time in public office has ended, but his commitment to Namibia remains strong.
“Our nation is rich in potential, and it is up to all of us—wherever we find ourselves—to do what is required to unlock it. Let us continue to work with integrity, vision, and determination to build the Namibia we all aspire to see. Thank you once again for your support. The journey continues!” he said.
He began his public service as Governor of the Bank of Namibia. He then became director general of the National Planning Commission before being appointed minister of mines and energy.
Alweendo did not make it to Parliament and did not say what he plans to do next.
“As I step down as Minister of Mines and Energy of Namibia, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all of you who have followed and supported my journey. It has been an incredible honour to serve the Namibian people,” he said.
“Throughout my tenure, I have been privileged to work alongside dedicated colleagues, industry leaders, and fellow Namibians who share a deep commitment to our country’s progress. Together, we have navigated challenges, seized opportunities, and laid foundations for a brighter future.”
He added that it has been an honour to serve as governor of the Bank of Namibia and later in government since 2010.
Other former ministers who did not return to the executive include Peya Mushelenga, Erastus Utoni, Utoni Nujoma, Utah Kandjii-Murangi, Anna Nghipondoka, Christine Hoebes, and Yvonne Dausab. They also did not make it to Parliament. Their party, Swapo, secured 51 seats.
President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah retained only three ministers from the previous cabinet: Lucia Ipumbu, Emma Theofelus, and Frans Kapofi.
Former members of the cabinet, Calle Schlettwein, Doreen Sioka, Albert Kawana, John Mutorwa, Agnes Tjongarero, and Kalumbi Shangula indicated that they would retire from public service.
