By William Mbangula
ONDANGWA
The dust is not likely to settle soon in the bitter fight between Ondangwa Town Council and the former Mayor, Priskilla Kauna Nashandi, following a squabble over the management of the trade fair here.
Although the fair was called off in April after legal action was brought against Nashandi, it appears the knives are out for a big showdown between the local authority and their ousted mayor.
According to a letter dated June 26, 2007 from the acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Ondangwa, Paul Ndjodhi, addressed to Nashandi, the local authority is demanding payment of N$225 642,12 from her.
The letter claims that the Ondangwa Town Council employees spent their time at the trade fair instead of doing official duties, hence the claim of N$187 597,25. Another claim is related to the equipment and machinery used which has allegedly cost the local authority N$38 044,83.
The letter reads: “We are giving you until July 6, 2007 to settle the claims, failing which legal action will be taken against you.”
It is also stated in the letter that 55% of the materials, including wooden poles, toilet facilities and nets, are not included in the said claim.
Meanwhile, the Steering Committee of the Ondangwa Trade Fair CC., led by Dr Gabriel Uahengo (secretary) and Nashandi (chairperson), has sent out invitations, co-signed by themselves, for a fund-raising campaign to be held on July 13. The trade fair is expected to be held from July 25 to 29.