Gariseb dissatisfied with Khomas Governor’s performance

By Nahum Kantene

Social Activist Shaun Gariseb says he is less satisfied with Khomas Governor Laura McLeod-Katjirua’s performance as governor. This came after the governor held the State of the Region address on 12 August 2024. In response to the governor’s address, Gariseb wrote a public letter criticizing Khomas Governor’s performance.

He explained that there are unending scandals, escalation of debts, and access to essential water and electricity that should have been addressed in the governor’s statement. In an interview with Confidente, he explicitly discussed the critical lack of development in rural areas of the Khomas Region, such as the Groot Aub and Mix settlements.

Gariseb stated that about 23,000 citizens in Groot Aub are without title deeds. “Rural areas of Khomas region are doing poorly and I was expecting it to be part of her state of regional address, but instead she is repeating the same figures from government agencies and not her achievements in office”.

Gariseb added that the governor did not address anything regarding Energy security in the Khomas region. “We all know electricity is the backbone of the economy, and Namibia is facing a serious deficit as far as energy generation is concerned. In July 2024 we forced the government to subsidize N$365 Millon from the national energy fund to halt electricity for this year’s financial year,” Gariseb said. Mcleod-Katjirua, during her address, updated the region on the economic sector, Infrastructure sector, ICT public enterprises, Social sector and Youth, the drought situation in the Khomas region, Resettlement in the Khomas region and other sectors.

The governor concluded her address by urging every loyal and patriotic citizen of the country to go to the polls to demonstrate their commitment and dedication to upholding democracy and freedom. “I therefore urge all the eligible voters of our great Khomas region to prioritise this national call with all the pride, loyalty and patriotism it deserves in the best interest of our present and future generations”, she concluded.

Gariseb expressed that he has no personal vendetta against any political but is tired of what he calls campaign tricks from politicians. He said he only seeks to understand the government’s influence and role so he understands how the community can improve government Offices through honest contributions and positive criticism.