🇳🇦NamibiaSouthern Africa
Kunene Regional Council employees face financial crisis as funds are blocked over chief regional officer's appointment
via The Namibian2 min read
Employees of the Kunene Regional Council are facing a financial crisis after funds allocated to the council were blocked, leaving staff without salaries for March and April. This situation stems from a directive issued last month by minister of urban and rural development James Sankwasa, who cited the unprocedural appointment of acting chief regional officer George Kamseb in 2021. The council's appeal against the directive was unsuccessful, leading them to challenge the legality of the minister’s decision in the High Court. Popular Democratic Movement PDM secretary general Manuel Ngaringombe highlighted the severe consequences, noting that administrative staff, including strategic and support personnel, are at risk of not receiving their salaries. The situation also affects councillors’ salaries, travel allowances, and subsistence claims, with only National Council members continuing to receive salaries directly from that body. Ngaringombe called for the immediate release of the funds, arguing that an alleged procedural error by an individual should not jeopardize the livelihoods of all council employees. Kunene Regional Council chairperson Western Muharukua described the directive as unlawful and stated the council is exploring alternative payment methods. Association of Regional Councils president Matengu Simushi condemned the move, stating the minister lacks authority to block funds for civil servants’ salaries and council operations, and suggested dialogue as a better res
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by The Namibian.
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