Desert FM 95.3

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AR takes ECN chairperson appointment to High Court

The Affirmative Repositioning is taking the appointment of Gerson Sindano as ECN chairperson to the High Court, arguing that the process was unlawful and unconstitutional. AR says its objection is not personal, but is aimed at protecting the integrity and independence of the electoral body.

Men remain disproportionately affected by suicide – mental health advocate

Namibia continues to face a worrying suicide crisis, with men accounting for the majority of recorded suicide cases. Police figures show that 124 suicides were recorded between January and March 2025, 108 of them being men. Mental health advocate Lesley Shetukana says masculinity norms, stigma around mental health and a tendency among men to suffer in silence are contributing to the high numbers.

Pension payment delays affect families

More than 15 000 pensioners affected by the government’s verification exercise are expected to have their outstanding payments finalised by October. Gender equality and child welfare minister Emma Kantema-Gaomas told the National Assembly on Wednesday that 15 785 pensioners were affected after concerns were raised over outdated beneficiary information. The minister said 10 660 pensioners have since been reinstated and are receiving their grants, while the remaining cases are still being processed. Activist Julius Natangwe says the delays have affected entire families who rely on pension grants for basic needs such as food and school necessities.

Venani questions Sindano appointment as ECN chair

PDM president McHenry Venaani says the approval of Gerson Sindano as the next ECN chairperson is eroding public confidence in Namibia’s electoral system, citing concerns over the appointment’s constitutionality and Sindano’s impartiality. Venaani says the opposition is considering legal options and will closely monitor the ECN’s conduct ahead of future elections.

City police blame driver behaviour for Windhoek crash hotspots

Windhoek City Police spokesperson superintendent Marceline Murapo says driver behaviour, including speeding, unsafe lane changes and trying to beat traffic lights, is contributing to crashes at the capital’s major accident hotspots. Murapo is urging motorists to slow down at intersections, avoid distractions and wait for the traffic light to turn green before proceeding.

Dillan Oliphant promises laughter at Hook Comedy All Stars

South African comedian Dillan Oliphant says audiences attending the Hook Comedy All Stars this Saturday can expect plenty of jokes, laughter and a live experience that cannot be replicated online. Oliphant, making his first comedy appearance in Namibia, says he is excited to meet Namibian audiences and share the stage with comedians from across the region.

Rencia Kooper calls for accountability after death of four-month-old baby at Mariental

Community activist Rencia Kooper is calling for greater institutional accountability following the death of four-month-old Senorita Bok, who died while her family was living in a makeshift shelter after their home was destroyed by fire. Speaking to Desert FM, Kooper raised concerns about the lack of timely assistance from local and regional authorities and questioned whether enough is being done to protect vulnerable children. She is appealing for assistance for Susana Bock and her children, including shelter materials, furniture, clothing and other basic household necessities.

IPC MP Ferdinand Engombe criticises party politics in parliament, opposes Sindano appointment

IPC member of parliament Ferdinand Engombe has criticised the display of Swapo political material inside the National Assembly, arguing that MPs have a constitutional duty to represent all Namibians. In an interview, Engombe questioned the speaker’s handling of the matter and raised concerns about possible bias in parliament. He also explained the IPC’s opposition to the appointment of Gerson Sindano as ECN chairperson, citing concerns over his CV and the opposition’s decision not to participate in the vote.

Extreme Eagles target premier league title as Oshana netball talent grows

Extreme Eagles founder and owner Wilhelm Hango says the club is targeting the MTC Netball Premier League title after rising from eighth place in its debut season to third runners-up in 2026. Hango is calling for increased sponsorship and investment to support player development and unlock the Oshana region’s growing netball talent.

LPM Raises Governance Concerns Over Proposed Petroleum Bill

In this interview, Landless People’s Movement (LPM) national spokesperson Lifalaza Simataa discussed concerns raised by party leader Bernadus Swartbooi regarding Namibia’s proposed petroleum bill, which seeks to place the oil and gas sector under the Office of the President. Simataa highlighted that centralizing control within the presidency weakens decentralization, reduces public oversight, and risks exposing the country to the "oil curse" through limited executive accountability. He emphasized the importance of debating these institutional flaws in Parliament before the bill is enacted to ensure robust checks and balances are put in place.

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