National News

Allexer Namundjembo Fifteen political parties, including the Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) and Landless People’s Movement (LPM), accepted an invitation from the Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN) to inspect electoral materials. The inspection process started yesterday and will end today (19 December). The process has been criticised over the limited time allocated. Ivan Skrywer, the LPM representative to the ECN, raised concerns about the feasibility of the inspection within the two-day timeframe mandated by the court. Speaking during the inspection at the ECN offices, Skrywer voiced his dissatisfaction with the court’s decision, which he argued did not reflect the seriousness…

Hertta-Maria Amutenja The death of a 26-year-old motorcyclist in a collision involving a Seapride Foods delivery truck has raised concerns about the company’s vehicle maintenance practices and accountability. The fatal accident occurred in Windhoek last month. According to police reports, a four-tonne truck reportedly hit a motorcycle on Robert Mugabe Avenue, causing it to collide with other stationary vehicles. The motorcyclist, identified as Romario Tony Pienaar, died at the scene. Romario’s mother, Suzette Elizabeth Dominguez, has since accused Seapride Foods of negligence, alleging that the truck’s brakes were not functioning properly at the time of the accident. “Innocent people were…

Erasmus Shalihaxwe Boxing promoter, Nestor Tobias has strong hopes that 2025 is going to be a better year for boxing. Tobias expressed the hope during an interview with the Windhoek Observer on Wednesday while highlighting boxing activities in 2024 and outlining aspirations for 2025. He said 2025 would be better, especially for his stable, as some of his boxers have good chances of winning world titles. “The current crop of boxers in the academy are hungry for success and they show it whenever they step into the ring to fight. Hence, some of them are in the world ranking, which…

Niël Terblanché As many Namibians prepare for their festive season travels at the start of the weekend, the Namibian Police issued an advisory to prevent a spike in housebreaking incidents, which typically rise during the holiday season. Deputy Commissioner Kauna Shikwambi, the head of the police’s public relations division, stressed the need for vigilance and proactive measures to safeguard homes while families celebrate Christmas and other festivities. "We have noted with concern an increase in housebreaking cases, particularly in urban areas, as the festive season approaches," she said. On Tuesday, members of the Namibian Police apprehended five suspects who broke…

Hertta-Maria Amutenja Icelandic artist, Oddur Eysteinn Fridriksson, known as ODEE, has announced plans to appeal a London High Court ruling that upheld Samherji HF’s trademark infringement claims. Fridriksson issued a statement this week following a hearing on the summary judgment delivered on 14 November. Fridriksson alleged that Samherji had escalated its legal costs demand to over £200 000 after initially offering to waive costs if he chose not to appeal. He described the move as coercive and an attempt to suppress his critique of the company’s alleged role in the Fishrot corruption scandal. During a hearing on 17 December, the…

Niël Terblanché President Nangolo Mbumba's state visit to Cuba not only reinforced the historical bonds of friendship and solidarity but also paved the way for enhanced bilateral cooperation. Mbumba, who is in Cuba on a two-day working visit, received Cuba’s highest accolade, the prestigious National Order of José Martí, which is named after Cuba’s national hero and revolutionary fighter. The Cuban head of state, President Miguel Diaz-Canel Bermúdez bestowed the honour on Mbumba at a special ceremony in Havana on Tuesday. While receiving the accolade, Mbumba assured President Bermúdez and the Cuban people of Namibia’s continued support towards the island…

Erasmus Shalihaxwe Locals make up 12.8% of visitors who booked to stay at Namibia Wildlife Resort (NWR) establishments across the country for the festive season. This was confirmed by the NWR spokesperson Nelson Ashipala in an interview with the Windhoek Observer on Wednesday. ‘’South Africans and German tourists follow, with South Africans showing particular interest in fishing activities along Namibia’s coastal areas. We are, however, on a trajectory to entice local tourism. It is my hope and hope that we reach that goal,’’ he said. Ashipala said the company has observed a surge in bookings for December 2024 and January…

Niël Terblanché Walvis Bay is geared up to ensure residents and visitors enjoy a safe, clean, and exciting festive season. Mayor Trevino Forbes has encouraged the community to reflect on the challenges of the past year while embracing the spirit of togetherness and renewal that Christmas brings. In a special festive season message, Forbes praised the resilience and unity of Walvis Bay’s residents, describing 2024 as a year that tested the town’s collective strength. “Neighbours supported one another, local businesses found innovative ways to serve their customers, and countless acts of kindness reminded us of the good in humanity. It…

Stefanus Nashama The Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) has decided to withhold media comments about the electoral process until 30 January 2025. This move has elicited mixed reactions from political analysts, the media, and party members. Graham Hopwood, the executive director of the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR), supports the decision. Graham Hopwood, the executive director of the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR), defended the decision, saying it aligns with the party’s focus on presenting its legal arguments in court. Hopwood stressed the importance of prioritising the legal process over public commentary. “Given that the case before the…

Hertta-Maria Amutenja The Chiefs’ Assembly of Okandjoze has rejected the Namibian government’s planned roadshows to provide feedback on the Joint Declaration (JD) negotiated with Germany regarding the 1904–1908 genocide against the Ovaherero, Ovambanderu, and Nama communities. The roadshows, set to begin today, 18 December, aim to inform affected communities about the bilateral agreement, which has sparked widespread criticism and rejection. In a media statement issued on Tuesday, the Assembly accused the government of sidelining affected communities and attempting to secure acceptance for the controversial agreement. “We as the Chiefs’ Assembly distance ourselves and our communities from the envisaged JD roadshows…