OSHAKATI – Deputy Minister of Urban and Rural Development Evelyn !Nawases-Taeyele reminded traditional leaders that the ministry is not legally required to select chiefs. 

That authority solely resides with the communities under their customary laws. 

!Nawases-Taeyele made the remarks on yesterday during the official opening of the Legal Framework Training for Traditional Authority Leaders , underway in Oshakati. 

The workshop, which began on Monday and will end on Friday, is attended by leaders from all eight northern-central traditional authorities: Uukwambi, Uukwaluudhi, Ongandjera, Ombalantu, Uukolonkadhi, Ombadja, Ondonga and Oukwanyama. 

The deputy minister stated that the ministry’s role is limited to verifying whether all due processes have been followed before endorsing or approving any appointments. 

She urged traditional leaders to exercise respect, tolerance and integrity in their leadership. 

“I humbly appeal to you all, my respected traditional leaders, to show greater tolerance and respect for your customary laws and norms. I hate to say this, but the notion that our forefathers are turning in their graves seems appropriate at the moment, given what is currently happening within some of our Traditional Authorities,” said the deputy minister. 

Nawases – Taeyele expressed concern that some traditional authorities have neglected legal requirements and failed to establish essential governance structures. 

She emphasised that she is referring to important structures, such as the Chief ’s Council, which is a vital organ responsible for the day-to-day administration of the traditional authority’s affairs. 

“The council further advises the chiefs and protects them from taking unwanted decisions,” she stressed. 

Oshana Governor Hofni Iipinge stated that the workshop, which focuses on the Namibian Constitution, the Communal Land Reform Act, the Traditional Authorities Act and the Council of Traditional Leaders Act, will enable leaders to carry out their duties with fairness and transparency. 

It is through these engagements that we can improve coordination between traditional and formal governance structures, ensuring our communities continue to thrive under laws that protect their rights and heritage,” he said. 

He urged traditional leaders to make full use of the training. 

“To our traditional leaders present here, I urge you to fully participate in this training and take advantage of the opportunity to learn, share experiences and discuss practical challenges encountered in the administration of traditional affairs,” he said. 

He added that their l eadership remains vital in promoting peace, unity and socio-economic progress. 

-vkaapanda@nepc. com