Scrutiny as Keetmans shortlists only one person for senior HR post

The Keetmanshoop municipality has come under scrutiny after shortlisting only one candidate for the key position of human resources strategic executive, despite reportedly receiving three applications. The move has sparked concerns over fairness and transparency in the recruitment process, particularly from some of the applicants and municipal insiders.Documents seen by Namibian Sun show that the vacancy was publicly advertised, with a closing date of 19 March. However, of the three applications received, only one candidate, a Mr A. Isaak, was shortlisted by the committee convened on 15 May.The shortlisting panel comprised acting CEO Gregorius Andries, University of Namibia lecturer Edwins Odero, Government Institutions Pension Fund (GIPF) regional manager Susan Farmer, and Namibia Public Workers Union (Napwu) representative Heinrich Karawora, who served as an observer.Isaak was interviewed on 21 July and scored 76.4%. He was unanimously recommended for appointment on a six-month probation period.Criticism mountsThe decision has drawn criticism from local observers and some applicants, who argue that given the small pool of applicants, all three should have been interviewed to ensure transparency and allow for broader consideration.“This approach undermines competitiveness and raises questions about the fairness of the process,” a source familiar with the matter said. Some critics have also questioned whether the recruitment process may have been influenced by political interests, pointing to the ruling Landless People’s Movement (LPM), which governs the southern town.LPM spokesperson Lifalaza Simataa dismissed such claims as “unfounded,” saying the party had no involvement in the process.Municipality respondsMunicipality spokesperson Monica Imene confirmed that three applications were received but explained that only one candidate met all the requirements for the role.“The candidate was shortlisted in accordance with the requirements of the job title,” she noted, adding that the municipality complied fully with the Recruitment and Selection Regulations of Local Authority Councils, under the Local Authorities Act, Act 23 of 1992.Asked about the validity of the process, she reiterated: “The recruitment process was conducted in accordance with the Local Authorities Act. Please note that the position has not yet been filled.”She further confirmed that the interview panel included representatives from neighbouring municipalities, regional councils, HR experts and union members in an effort to ensure impartiality.Next stepsDespite the explanation, concerns persist about the decision to proceed with just one candidate. Observers argue that doing so, regardless of policy compliance, gives an impression of predetermined outcomes.The final decision on Isaak’s appointment will be made at an upcoming management committee meeting. Should he decline a potential offer, the municipality says the recruitment process will be restarted.

Scrutiny as Keetmans shortlists only one person for senior HR post

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Namibian Sun 2025-09-10

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Scrutiny as Keetmans shortlists only one person for senior HR post

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Namibian Sun 2025-09-10

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