By Salawatu Zuberu
Namibia’s President, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, has dismissed Agriculture Minister Dr. Mac-Albert Hengari following serious allegations of rape, gender-based violence (GBV), and kidnapping.
In a statement issued by the presidency, President Nandi-Ndaitwah invoked Article 32(6) of the Namibian Constitution to formally relieve Dr. Hengari of his duties as Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Land Reform. The decision comes after the former minister was arrested over the weekend in connection with multiple criminal complaints, sparking widespread public concern and debate.
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Local media reports indicate that Dr. Hengari is under investigation for several cases involving sexual assault and violent conduct. Authorities have confirmed that investigations are ongoing, though no formal charges have yet been announced.
However, the circumstances surrounding his exit from office remain somewhat unclear. Conflicting reports suggest that Dr. Hengari may have tendered his resignation prior to being officially dismissed. Speaking briefly to journalists, he stated, “I resigned as a minister, but I can’t comment further.” His remarks have fueled speculation about whether the resignation was voluntary or prompted by imminent dismissal.
Dr. Hengari’s fall from grace marks a dramatic turn in a political career that had been on a rapid rise. Appointed just this past March, he was seen as a key ally of President Nandi-Ndaitwah, having been included in the president’s list of the top eight parliamentary candidates earlier this year. His appointment was regarded as part of a broader strategy to revitalize Namibia’s agriculture sector amid growing economic and environmental challenges.
The allegations have shocked the Namibian public and renewed calls from civil society organizations for stronger accountability and zero tolerance towards gender-based violence within political leadership. Activists have emphasized the need for swift and transparent investigations to ensure justice for potential victims.
The presidency has yet to announce a replacement for the Agriculture Ministry portfolio, but government officials indicated that an acting minister will be appointed shortly to ensure continuity of operations.
This development comes as Namibia, like many African nations, grapples with persistently high rates of gender-based violence. Advocacy groups have long warned that without decisive action, including holding high-ranking officials accountable, efforts to curb GBV would continue to face serious setbacks.
As the investigation unfolds, all eyes will be on how the Namibian government manages this sensitive case, balancing the principles of due process with the urgent need to maintain public trust and uphold the rights of survivors.
