National News

Niël Terblanché During a special vigil, representatives from various United Nations agencies commemorated the profound impact of President Hage Geingob on both the Namibian nation and the international community. President Geingob was remembered for his essential role in Namibia's journey towards independence and his commitment to fostering international solidarity and according to UN representatives, his vision continues to resonate across the globe. Sam Ocran, the UNICEF country representative, remembered President Geingob's dedication to inclusivity, particularly his efforts to ensure youth participation in decision-making processes through initiatives like the children's parliament. According to Ocran, this approach emphasized Geingob's belief in empowering…

Martin Endjala In a strong move to intensify the fight against corruption, the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has called for companies to disclose their financial dealings, including gross revenue, taxes, royalties, and payments to the government and shareholders. This initiative aligns with the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), a standard that Namibia, through the Ministry of Mines and Energy, is encouraged to adopt. The ACC’s Chief Public Relations Officer, Josefina Nghituwamata highlighted the potential benefits of joining the EITI, emphasizing transparency in the financial activities of companies. "These disclosures are essential for public accountability," Nghituwamata stated while pointing to Norway as…

Stefanus Nashama Social Justice Activist, Michael Amushelelo, said he has received death threats after speaking out against the incident in which members of the the Namibian Police Force killed five suspected robbers at Okahandja last year He, however, vowed to keep fighting injustice, stating that he would die standing on his principles because he is not a coward. “Please, tell those that are sending me death threats that I am not afraid of them. I will die on my feet because I am not a coward,” said the activist. Speaking to Windhoek Observer yesterday, Amushelelo said a person, whom he…

Stefanus Nashama Inna Hengari, the Popular Democratic Movement’s Member of Parliament, has revealed her intention to sue the Inspector General of the Namibian Police, Lieutenant General Joseph Shikongo, for N$2 million. The intended lawsuit follows Hengari’s alleged unlawful arrest and detention by the police and the subsequent partial prosecution on charges that were withdrawn on 15 August 2023. According to a letter addressed to Shikongo, by Hengari’s Lawyer, Mesekameneko Tjituri, the civil proceedings are expected to be instituted in the High Court of Namibia on 15 March 2024. Tjituri stated that his client was unlawfully arrested and detained by the…

Niël Terblanché The Ministry of Health and Social Services has reported a surge in COVID-19 cases in Rehoboth, in the Hardap Region, with schools being the primary hotspots. As of 8 February 2024, 20 cases have been confirmed, with a significant concentration at Dr Lemmer High School, marking a critical point in the region’s battle against the pandemic. Dr Benville Platt, the acting regional health director of Hardap, emphasized the necessity of strict adherence to COVID-19 safety protocols in educational institutions. With 11 individuals having already recovered and 9 still battling active infections, the situation underscores the volatile nature of…