EDITORIAL: It’s time for Sankwasa to act decisively or keep quiet

The ongoing turf wars between local authorities and urban and rural development minister Sankwasa James Sankwasa have become a theatre of dysfunction – loud, pointless and increasingly dangerous.



At Omuthiya, Johannes Ndeutepo still sits smugly on his throne, while in Katima Mulilo, councillors this week essentially told the minister to stay in his lane or get lost.



And in the middle of this political shouting match? The ordinary citizen, held hostage by ego-driven battles and paralysed governance structures.

So, who will rescue Katima’s people from this circus? Because let’s be frank, both sides can’t be right, and one of them is certainly wrong.



If Sankwasa is confident in both his legal standing and moral compass, then the time for niceties and press releases is over. Act. Govern. Lead. He has offered the nation enough servings of empty rhetoric – and frankly, we’re stuffed.



This stand-off, now bordering on farce, is painting Namibia as a banana republic where titles are plenty but authority is nowhere to be found.



Let’s be clear: we don’t endorse authoritarianism. No minister should flex power like a bodybuilder in a village square, just to impress the crowd. But if a flex is warranted – if it serves the public good – then by all means, roll up the sleeves and show your muscle.

Because this cannot remain a shouting contest. The people deserve more than noise. They deserve action, rooted in law and guided by integrity.



If the councillors are right, then Sankwasa must eat humble pie, retreat and redirect his energy elsewhere. But if he’s right, if the law and the facts are on his side, then it’s time to drop the hammer.



Minister, you’ve spoken enough. Now, govern – or step aside.