A political fight has erupted between Urban Development Minister James Sankwasa and opposition leader Bernadus Swartbooi. Swartbooi claims Sankwasa lacks legal power to control local government councils. The Landless People's Movement chief argues the Constitution prevents Cabinet ministers from ruling over regional authorities. Sankwasa defends his actions as lawful job duties. He states only the president can prevent his oversight work.
Sankwasa points to audit reports showing financial problems at Kharas regional council. The minister plans to investigate despite political opposition. Legal documents permit ministers to force local authorities to follow rules and complete required tasks. Sankwasa questions who else would hold councils responsible for their actions. He argues voters cannot easily travel to demand accountability from distant officials.
The minister recently fired Omuthiya town councillor Johannes Ndeutapo for living outside his jurisdiction. Local law requires council members to reside within their service areas. Ndeutapo disputes the dismissal and claims he remains a legitimate councillor. The fired official argues Sankwasa lacks authority to remove elected representatives. Legal experts continue debating ministerial powers over local government.
Swartbooi has ordered his party members to examine Sankwasa's record as a councillor from 2004 to 2008. The opposition leader accuses President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah of appointing an unqualified person. Popular Democratic Movement leader McHenry Venaani supports changing residency laws for council candidates. Political parties remain divided over proper oversight of local government operations.
Sankwasa points to audit reports showing financial problems at Kharas regional council. The minister plans to investigate despite political opposition. Legal documents permit ministers to force local authorities to follow rules and complete required tasks. Sankwasa questions who else would hold councils responsible for their actions. He argues voters cannot easily travel to demand accountability from distant officials.
The minister recently fired Omuthiya town councillor Johannes Ndeutapo for living outside his jurisdiction. Local law requires council members to reside within their service areas. Ndeutapo disputes the dismissal and claims he remains a legitimate councillor. The fired official argues Sankwasa lacks authority to remove elected representatives. Legal experts continue debating ministerial powers over local government.
Swartbooi has ordered his party members to examine Sankwasa's record as a councillor from 2004 to 2008. The opposition leader accuses President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah of appointing an unqualified person. Popular Democratic Movement leader McHenry Venaani supports changing residency laws for council candidates. Political parties remain divided over proper oversight of local government operations.
