Hertta-Maria Amutenja
A senior male editorial employee from a local daily newspaper is facing allegations of assaulting his girlfriend, a radio journalist, on Tuesday, following an April Fool’s prank.
It’s alleged the prank resulted in water spilling over the editor’s passport.
A case of assault was opened by the victim with the Namibian police.
The Namibia Media Professionals Union (NAMPU) condemned the alleged assault, expressing concern over the prevalence of violence against women in local newsrooms.
According to NAMPU, the suspect, identified as a prominent editor, has allegedly engaged in such behaviour repeatedly.
NAMPU emphasised the importance of justice, demanding that the perpetrator be held accountable and face the full consequences of the law.
“We are disturbed by the revelation that the suspect has allegedly engaged in such behaviour repeatedly. NAMPU vehemently condemns this incident in the strongest terms possible and demands that the perpetrator be swiftly brought to justice and face the full wrath of the law,” said acting NAMPU Acting Secretary-General Jemima Beukes.
The union further stressed that such actions have no place within the media industry and called for a collective effort to foster a culture of zero tolerance for violence.
Moreover, Beukes commended the victim for her courage in speaking out against her assailant, pledging unwavering support from the union.
Police spokesperson Chief Inspector Elifas Kuwinga could not confirm the incident.
“I have requested the report,” he said.
