Transport Commission readies for first meeting

OGONE TLHAGE



WINDHOEK

The newly appointed Transportation Commission is expected to meet in early May, its new chairperson James William has indicated.

This follows an almost seven-month gap that has meant the commission could not meet after concerns had been raised about the eligibility of its former chairperson, Rachel Nathaniel-Koch, to serve in that position.

Nathaniel-Koch was subsequently replaced by transport minister John Mutorwa.

Requirements

The chairperson of the commission and his or her deputy are required to be legal practitioners as defined by law, who have practised as such for at least five years.

Mutorwa gave Nathaniel-Koch until 15 March to sort out her issues with the authorities or risk being replaced.

Mutorwa had also indicated that there was nothing untoward about the new commission.

“The issue had been resolved, [Nathaniel]-Koch is gone,” he said briefly.

When approached for comment, Nathaniel-Koch neither confirmed or denied whether she would challenge the decision to replace her, saying she did not want to comment on the matter.

Almost there

Regarding the commission’s first meeting, William said as soon as gazetting for its activities had been carried out, a meeting would be held.

“There will be a publication of the commission in the Government Gazette before the end of April. Early May, from the first meeting, then the processes of the commission will commence,” he said.

The other members of the commission include Yolanda Itamba as deputy chairperson, Johannes Thikusho, Helvi Petrus and Joe Shipepe.

The commission will serve until 31 August 2025.