PDM embarrassed by govt

The Popular Democratic Movement (PDM) says 2018 was an embarrassing year, as government leaders failed to address rising labour, social and economic problems. PDM secretary-general Manuel Ngaringombe listed a number of “scandalous” incidents that have put the government to shame. The official opposition is particularly aggrieved by the fact that President Hage Geingob has admitted he was unaware of the purchase of Oropoko Lodge by the Namibia Defence Force (NDF) and the 99-year leasing of farms to Russian oligarch Rashid Sardarov. The PDM lodged a High Court application to set aside the leasing of the four farms to Sardarov, who initially bought the properties and donated them to the government. The respondents are the lands and finance ministries, the prime minister's office, Geingob, the attorney-general's office, the registrar of deeds, the chairperson of the Central Procurement Board and Comsar Properties SA, owned by Sardarov. “It is a shame that the head of state on two occasions admitted that he was not aware of the purchase and lease of farms by his cabinet ministers to the Russian oligarch. “This is a clear indication that the persons who take the public oath to guard the affairs of the Republic of Namibia are taking the country and its people for a ride,” said Ngaringombe. The PDM said it was shameful that its warnings about budget management and coordination were ignored. The party has now called on finance minister Calle Schlettwein and government to “wake up” and acknowledge the economic turmoil in the country. “And to come up with uncompromising solutions to this challenge no matter how politically unpalatable,” Ngaringombe said. Schlettwein said the PDM was inaccurate when it “made the noise”. According to Schlettwein the government has a sound system in place that is recognised by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). “I know honourable Nico Smit [PDM MP] had a lot to say, but he was inaccurate; he is in fact wrong with some of his assumptions. “I know they have made these noises. I think they are drumming up the situation for their own political reasons. “We have a very good system and our consolidation phases are showing that we are on the right track. And in fact the IMF is recognising that and all other ratings agencies are giving us a stable outlook,” Schlettwein said. The PDM is further disturbed by the increasing number of strikes and job losses during the year. “We therefore call upon the ministry of labour, trade unions and employers to work towards healthy relations, as workers are the breadwinners of the families,” Ngaringombe said. JEMIMA BEUKES

PDM embarrassed by govt

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Namibian Sun 2025-09-08

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PDM embarrassed by govt

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Namibian Sun 2025-09-08

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