Africa-Press – Namibia. The return of erstwhile Swapo Arandis constituency councillor Benitha Imbamba as chairperson of the Erongo Regional Council is imminent.
This is after her reinstatement was placed on the agenda.
The special council meeting where Imbamba’s fate will be determined is set for tomorrow.
This is according to a statement issued last week by Erongo chief regional officer Mpenzeni Ntelamo, following a High Court ruling that nullified the vote of no confidence that detonated Imbamba’s demise in April.
According to the ruling, Imbamba should be reinstated with immediate effect, with all benefits repaid since her removal.
“The council has noted the ruling delivered in the Windhoek High Court on 1 August 2025, instructing the Erongo Regional Council to reinstate Imbamba to the position of chairperson. The matter has since been placed on the agenda, Council will pronounce itself on the way forward,” Ntelamo said.
He added that the council remains committed to upholding the rule of law, transparency and democratic principles.
As such, the council will not entertain any queries until the scheduled meeting is held.
Imbamba scored a legal victory when the High Court ruled in her favour last week, ordering her immediate reinstatement.
She was removed after Walvis Bay Urban councillor Deriou Benson tabled a motion of no confidence in April.
This resulted in Independent Patriots for Change councillor Florian Donatus being sworn in as chairperson.
In his motion, Benson accused Imbamba of poor leadership, creating division among councillors and failing to consult members of the council.
Additionally, he claimed she governed using divide-and-rule tactics and sidelined fellow councillors.
“The chairperson makes decisions that hinder the effective functioning of the council. The integrity and decorum of the council have deteriorated under her leadership,” Benson said at the time.
Imbamba subsequently dragged the council, Donatus, the minister of Urban and Rural Development, Ntelamo and Benson to court.
In his judgement, High Court Judge Orben Sibeya ruled that the vote of no confidence was unlawful, unfair and invalid due to procedural flaws and a lack of legal authority.
Donatus’ appointment was set aside, and the court ordered that all Imbamba’s employment benefits be restored, including back pay from the date of her removal until full execution of the judgment.
In a separate matter, the council opened a case of theft and fraud with the Namibian Police Force following the discovery of unauthorised expenditure on its account at Metro Mega Swakopmund.Namibian art
Ntelamo said the council has launched a comprehensive investigation in collaboration with the police to identify and hold those responsible accountable.
“The case is under investigation. Therefore, the council will not comment further until the matter is concluded by the relevant law enforcement authorities,” he said.
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