‘He’s here, but he’s not here’

… councillors operating away from communities slammed

Constituency residents have expressed mixed feelings about the effectiveness of regional councillors recently appointed to deputy ministerial positions by president Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah.

While some praise their councillors, others remain concerned about whether local leaders can balance their ministerial and regional council roles.

The appointments include Ndonga Linena constituency councillor Anselm Marungu as deputy minister of environment and tourism, Hans Haikali of Etayi as deputy minister of works and transport, Wenzel Kavaka of Otjombinde as deputy minister of information and communication technology, Hambeleleni Ndjaleka of !Nami≠Nüs as deputy minister of health and social services, Edward Wambo of Rehoboth East as deputy minister of home affairs, immigration, safety and security, Theresia Brandt of Dâures as deputy minister of justice and labour relations, and Guinas councillor Moses //Khumub as deputy minister in the Office of the Vice President.

Rehoboth Block E activist John Khachab says Wambo only engages residents during election times and avoids direct interaction with the community.