Tsumeb CEO appointment still in limbo despite Sankwasa’s approval

Renthia Kaimbi

Minister of urban and rural development James Sankwasa declared that he had approved the appointment of former National Youth Council director, Calista Schwartz-Gowases as chief executive officer of the Tsumeb municipality effective 1 June 2026.

However, the newly appointed CEO has still not commenced work, with sources indicating that she is yet to receive a formal letter of appointment.

Sankwasa told the Windhoek Observer on Sunday that the matter was resolved, stating, “It’s water under the bridge. I already approved the appointment of the first recommended candidate Calista Schwartz, who I expected to assume duty on 01 June 2026.”

The delay comes after an internal dispute within the Tsumeb council, where a faction led by deputy mayor Lischen Classen and councillor Richard Naobeb formally challenged the decision-making process that led to the initial deviation from the interview panel’s recommendation.