Keypoints:
- President Nandi-Ndaitwah sacks Agriculture Minister Hengari
- Hengari faces charges including rape and kidnapping
- Dismissal effective from April 23, with parliament seat revoked
NAMIBIA’S President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has dismissed Agriculture Minister Mac-Albert Hengari following his arrest on serious criminal charges, the presidency confirmed on Sunday.
In a statement posted on X, the Namibian presidency said Hengari was relieved of his duties ‘by virtue of the powers vested in the President by Article 32(6) of the Constitution of the Republic of Namibia’. The decision takes effect from April 23, the day Hengari was expected to tender his resignation. His parliamentary seat has also been revoked.
Minister faces multiple criminal charges
Hengari, who had only been appointed as Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform in March, was arrested on Saturday. Local broadcaster NBC reported that he is under investigation for several serious offences, including rape, gender-based violence, and kidnapping.
The charges have sent shockwaves through Namibia’s political establishment, coming just weeks into Hengari’s tenure.
The presidency’s statement gave no further details about the allegations but confirmed the government’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and taking swift action where necessary.
Swift action by President Nandi-Ndaitwah
President Nandi-Ndaitwah, who recently assumed office, acted quickly to remove Hengari from his ministerial post and parliament position. The presidency stressed that the government would not tolerate misconduct or criminal behaviour from its public officials.
‘The decision to relieve Dr Hengari of his duties reflects the government’s firm commitment to integrity, accountability, and the rule of law,’ the statement read.
The government has not yet announced who will temporarily oversee the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform while a permanent replacement is identified.
Public and political reaction
News of Hengari’s arrest has sparked widespread public outcry, with many calling for transparency and a thorough investigation into the allegations. Civil society groups have urged authorities to handle the case with urgency and fairness to maintain public confidence in the justice system.
Political analysts suggest the scandal could prove an early test for President Nandi-Ndaitwah’s administration, which has pledged to lead a more transparent and accountable government.
Hengari, a relatively new face in high office, had been tasked with revitalising Namibia’s critical agricultural and fisheries sectors. His abrupt departure now leaves a significant leadership gap at a time when the country is grappling with economic challenges linked to drought and food security concerns.
The Namibian Police and prosecuting authorities have yet to release an official statement regarding the next steps in Hengari’s legal case.
