Nalao demands reforms after suspension of Omaruru CEO

The Namibian Association of Local Authority Officials (Nalao) has called for urgent reforms following reports that Omaruru CEO Valentinus Sindongo was allegedly suspended without due process.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Nalao president Moses Matyayi said the association had learned "with shock and concern" of the suspension and warned that disciplinary action must be conducted in accordance with the law and established procedures.

"Based on information available to us, the suspension appears to have been effected without adherence to the principles of due process and fair labour practice," Matyayi said.

While acknowledging the authority of local councils to exercise oversight and accountability, Matyayi underlined that "any disciplinary action against senior officials must be undertaken in accordance with the law, established procedures, and the principles of natural justice."

The association warned that "arbitrary or procedurally flawed suspensions undermine good governance, institutional stability and public confidence”.

Matyayi argued that local authority chief executives remain among the most vulnerable employees in the public sector because most are appointed on fixed-term contracts that can be terminated or not renewed with little accountability.

"Suspensions and disciplinary measures can be instituted with limited accountability for those responsible, often resulting in uncertainty, reputational damage, and instability within local authorities," he warned.

The association argued that the Omaruru matter reinforces the need for comprehensive local government reform, particularly the establishment of a local government service commission as envisaged in the local government reform policy.

Nalao said the commission would promote professionalism and stability in local government administration, ensure fair, transparent and consistent employment practices across all local authorities, and protect both councils and senior officials through impartial disciplinary and grievance procedures.

"We therefore call upon the Ministry of Urban and Rural Development to urgently intervene in this matter and to accelerate the implementation of the local government reform agenda," Matyayi said.