Departing municipal leaders in northern Namibia are urging newly elected officials to prioritize cooperation over partisan disputes as they prepare to assume office.
Leonard Hango, who served as Oshakati Town Council mayor under the Swapo party, emphasized that representatives must set aside political differences and respond to all constituents equally. He warned against allowing party loyalty to interfere with public service obligations, noting that canceled meetings and internal conflicts have plagued some councils. Hango highlighted achievements during his term, such as land distribution and infrastructure improvements in previously informal settlements. He called on successors to build upon existing progress.
Sara Peelenga from Outapi Town Council said her final session will take place on Friday, November 21. She detailed efforts to reclaim properties from developers who failed to meet obligations and to assist residents seeking compensation for disputed parcels. The council has undertaken road expansion projects and addressed unauthorized street commerce. Peelenga stressed that affordable housing remains a challenge requiring government support. Both outgoing officials reminded incoming members that their duty extends beyond party interests to serve residents and advance municipal development through partnerships with neighboring jurisdictions and private enterprises.
Leonard Hango, who served as Oshakati Town Council mayor under the Swapo party, emphasized that representatives must set aside political differences and respond to all constituents equally. He warned against allowing party loyalty to interfere with public service obligations, noting that canceled meetings and internal conflicts have plagued some councils. Hango highlighted achievements during his term, such as land distribution and infrastructure improvements in previously informal settlements. He called on successors to build upon existing progress.
Sara Peelenga from Outapi Town Council said her final session will take place on Friday, November 21. She detailed efforts to reclaim properties from developers who failed to meet obligations and to assist residents seeking compensation for disputed parcels. The council has undertaken road expansion projects and addressed unauthorized street commerce. Peelenga stressed that affordable housing remains a challenge requiring government support. Both outgoing officials reminded incoming members that their duty extends beyond party interests to serve residents and advance municipal development through partnerships with neighboring jurisdictions and private enterprises.
