Uakutura Kambaekua

OPUWO – The Opuwo Town Council (OTC) has maintained the status quo, following the election of office-bearers at council chambers on Tuesday. 

All members retained their previous positions.

Rosa Mbinge-Tjeundo, a Popular Democratic Movement (PDM) councillor, retained her mayoral position after being nominated unopposed by fellow party member Kasipo Kakondo. 

Kakondo will serve as Mbinge-Tjeundo’s deputy, having also been nominated unopposed by PDM member Lucius Kaare Mupya.

Mupya was re-elected as chairperson of the management committee after his nomination by Swapo stalwart Wilhelmine Nashihua. 

Nashihua and PDM’s Forester Matjiru Tjijahura were both re-elected as additional members of the management committee.

Swapo members Victorino Simon and Ruth Nderura will continue to serve as ordinary council members. Opuwo District Magistrate Eden Kuneni Amutenya officiated the swearing-in of the councillors.

In her acceptance speech, Mbinge-Tjeundo emphasised the importance of unity in local government, stating that the Opuwo council’s journey should serve as an example to all Namibians of how differences can be set aside to work collaboratively.

“Our journey together stands as a testament to maturity and a shared vision. 

Coming from different political backgrounds, we have set aside our differences to focus on what truly matters – development and service delivery. 

Together, we have built a foundation, rooted in collaboration, resilience and purpose, always prioritising the needs of our people,” she said.

The mayor’s comments followed the nominations, which saw councillors from different political parties nominating individuals from opposing parties.

 She called on Namibians to avoid engaging in politics in the workplace, stressing that elected officials are there to serve all citizens equally.

The mayor expressed gratitude to her fellow councillors for their trust and confidence in her leadership over the years.

“Serving as mayor of Opuwo Town for a fifth consecutive term is a profound honour and privilege, one I do not take lightly,” she noted.

She reaffirmed the council’s dedication to advancing Opuwo’s development, saying “I reaffirm my commitment to serving the people of Opuwo with integrity, diligence and vision. 

Together, we will continue to drive progress, and bring opportunities to our town.”

-Nampa