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Message: [QUOTE="Nehanda, post: 24106, member: 2262"] Defense Chief Files N$500,000 Defamation Suit Over Social Media Claims. Namibian Defence Force chief Martin Pinehas has filed a defamation lawsuit against Independent Patriots for Change councilor Nghipudilo ya Shiindi, seeking N$500,000 in damages for social media comments. The lawsuit stems from Ya Shiindi's TikTok post on November 29, which alleged Pinehas planned to harm IPC president Panduleni Itula. Court documents filed by lawyer Sisa Namandje claim these statements spread across multiple social media platforms. Ya Shiindi claimed Pinehas held a meeting at Grootfontein Military Base on election day, November 27, 2024, to plot against Itula. "We know of all your plans... don't you dare... this is 2024, and you guys are trying to pee on the peace and stability that you keep on preaching," the translated statement reads. Pinehas maintains these allegations are false and damage his reputation. The lawsuit alleges Ya Shiindi's comments wrongly portrayed him as using the NDF for political purposes and criminal activities. Ya Shiindi posted a public apology on TikTok the same day, acknowledging the allegations were unfounded. Despite this, Pinehas proceeds with legal action. He demands a court declaration of falsehood and a formal retraction alongside the monetary compensation. Ya Shiindi's attorney, Dirk Conradie, filed a defense notice on Monday. The court scheduled a case planning conference for February 12. Similar cases have emerged in Namibian courts. In December 2023, Mathilde Kadhikwa paid N$130,000 to businessman Shapwa Kanyama. IPC spokesperson Imms Nashinge paid N$60,000 to Beata Kanyama in 2021. In 2022, former first lady Monica Geingos prevailed against teacher Abed Hishoono. Deputy Finance Minister Maureen Hinda received N$100,000 from Job Amupanda in August 2023. [/QUOTE]

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