Renthia Kaimbi
Suspended Walvis Bay Rural constituency councillor Florian Donatus faces imminent arrest over a fraud and theft case involving the Erongo Regional Council.
The case, registered in Swakopmund, alleges Donatus used a council credit facility to procure goods worth N$116 464.31 during his tenure.
Initial reports in July suggested unidentified individuals had used the same facility to buy items worth N$32 000.
Investigators now indicate that Donatus acted alone.
He is accused of taking items from Metro Walvis Bay and charging them to the council’s refreshment account without approval from the council administrator.
Erongo regional commander commissioner Nikolaus Kupembona confirmed the case is under investigation.
“We are aware of the case. Investigations are still ongoing, but we will announce any arrest when we should,” he told the Windhoek Observer.
The case has already caused political fallout. The Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) recalled Donatus last week.
In its recall letter, the IPC said the move was to allow unhindered investigations “relating to your alleged corrupt conduct pertaining to mismanagement and maladministration of council resources.”
When contacted for comment, Donatus said he had not been informed of the details.
“I am unaware of what exactly I am being investigated for,” he told the Windhoek Observer.
Despite his recall and a separate court order reinstating Swapo’s Benita Imbamba as council chairperson, Donatus continues to operate as if in office.
Sources told the Windhoek Observer that he still uses the official council vehicle, participates in councillor communication platforms, and receives invitations to official events.
The chief regional officer of Erongo, who lodged the complaint, was not available for comment.
