ADM backs independent candidate to fix Rundu service challenges

The Action Democratic Movement (ADM) has pledged its full support for independent candidate Johannes Pessa, who will contest the Rundu Urban constituency in the regional and local authority elections later this month. The announcement was made this week during an ADM engagement with party members in Rundu, where ADM vice president Kanyetu Kanyetu and Pessa outlined plans to tackle the town’s longstanding governance and service delivery challenges.Pessa, a former Swapo Party member, said years of administrative inefficiency, corruption and poor planning had driven his decision to run as an independent.“The people from informal settlements, who make up the majority of this town, are the ones suffering most because leadership does not recognise their lives,” Pessa said. He pledged a leadership model built on daily community engagement, transparency and inclusive decision-making.Kanyetu said the ADM has a clear plan to restore accountability within the Rundu Town Council.He said the council has been operating on a “zero-balance budget” for years, leaving residents with inadequate water supply, poorly maintained roads and weak oversight of municipal funds.According to a report by Namibian Sun last week, unpaid municipal bills in Rundu have soared to over N$588 million, while the council itself owes more than N$300 million to NamWater.“Every year, our debt book increases by almost N$500 million,” said CEO Olavi Nathanael, warning that the town’s financial sustainability is at risk.Promises of trust, accountability Both ADM and Pessa accused the council of alleged corruption in tender allocations and failing to consult residents on major projects, citing the impending closure of Omashare Hotel, which they blamed on council negligence.“Companies coming to Rundu must operate in a way that benefits our people. Otherwise, they will not receive fitness certificates,” Kanyetu warned.ADM will field seven candidates for seats on the local authority council, aiming to ensure that its vision and policies are fully implemented.The duo outlined plans to improve infrastructure, including modern gravel roads, proper street lighting and green spaces for recreation. Water and electricity access for all households will be prioritised, alongside the establishment of platforms like the Rundu urban forum for citizens to directly participate in governance decisions, they said. “Our goal is to unite the people and restore a culture of accountability,” Pessa said, vowing that ADM’s leadership will hold senior council staff accountable with mandatory monthly progress reports. “If you do not deliver, you will not be in the office. No more excuses.”phiillipus@nmh-hub.com.na

ADM backs independent candidate to fix Rundu service challenges

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Namibian Sun 2025-11-06

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ADM backs independent candidate to fix Rundu service challenges

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Namibian Sun 2025-11-06

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