WALVIS BAY – Usakos mayor, Irene Simeon-Kurtz will step down at the end of her term and will not contest the upcoming local authority elections.

She will however continue being an active member of her party, Swapo.

The regional and local authority elections are scheduled for Wednesday, 26 November 2025, when Namibians will elect councillors to serve four-year terms. Simeon-Kurtz yesterday said she decided a year ago not to stand for election this time around. 

“I strongly believe one should not overstay in some portfolios. Everyone must be given the opportunity to serve,” she said.

Reflecting on her past five years in office, including three as mayor, she described her tenure as being defined by resilience, innovation, and a shared commitment to building a better town.

“As Usakos transitions to new leadership in 2026, I want to leave my incoming comrades and fellow councillors a message of hope and optimism. We must stay on course. We have a Swapo manifesto and NDP 6 to implement,” she said.

Simeon-Kurtz says she will continue serving the Karibib district as coordinator for the Swapo Party Women’s Council.

“This role contributes significantly to the upliftment and social well-being of women and our society. 

I will still be at the forefront of Usakos’ transformation and modernisation efforts. I am a proud resident of Usakos, and we all have a duty to develop our town,” she said. Simeon-Kurtz holds a master’s degree in International Business and a master’s degree in Public Policy and Governance Administration from the University of Stellenbosch. 

She is the founder and president of the Black Business Leadership Network of Namibia and has served on boards including Telecom Namibia, Powercom, ErongoRED, and the Namibia Competition Commission. -edeklerk@nepc.com.na