The Namibia Football Association (NFA) has confirmed the reinstatement of Tovey Hoebeb, who resumed his duties as a safety officer following a suspension that began in May. 

NFA spokesperson Isack Hamata confirmed Hoebeb’s return to work. 

He however refrained from disclosing details about the disciplinary hearing Hoebeb underwent as well as whether he was suspended with or without pay.

Hoebeb, a long-standing member of the NFA, was initially suspended in connection with his role as chairperson of a disciplinary inquiry committee. 

The committee was examining an incident involving Young Generations coach Matthew Kambundu, who was captured on video assaulting a referee after a heated match. 

The altercation occurred during a PstBet NFA Cup game at the NFA Technical Centre, where Young Generations lost 2-0 to Patriots. 

The video, widely shared on social media, shows Kambundu striking the referee in frustration after the loss.

Junias Nangolo, the owner of Young Generations, said Hoebeb allegedly overstepped his authority by suspending him without a formal hearing, prompting the NFA to take disciplinary action against Hoebeb. 

His suspension raised questions about protocol and authority within the association, particularly regarding the scope and limits of Hoebeb’s role as an acting committee chair.

While Hoebeb has returned to his position at the NFA, the general secretary, Charles Siyauya, has remained tight-lipped on the matter, declining to comment on the disciplinary outcome or his reinstatement. 

Siyauya directed inquiries to Hoebeb, who has not responded to requests for comment regarding his status with Cosafa and Fifa assignments, which remain in question and how the suspension affected his livelihood during the period of the suspension.

Hoebeb’s case sheds light on internal procedural complexities at the NFA, as well as the challenges of managing disciplinary matters that involve high-stakes incidents. 

-lmupetami@nepc.com.na